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Breaking Sky
In this high-flying, adrenaline-fueled debut thriller, America's best hope is the elite teen fighter pilots of the United Star Academy
Chase Harcourt, call sign "Nyx," is one of only two pilots chosen to fly the experimental "Streaker" jets at the junior Air Force Academy in the year 2048. She's tough and impulsive with lightning-fast reactions, but few know the pain and loneliness of her past or the dark secret about her father. All anyone cares about is that Chase aces the upcoming Streaker trials, proving the prototype jet can knock the enemy out of the sky.
But as the world tilts toward war, Chase cracks open a military secret. There's a third Streaker jet, whose young hotshot pilot, Tristan, can match her on the ground and in the clouds. Chase doesn't play well with others, but to save her country she may just have to put her life in the hands of the competition.
Chase Harcourt, call sign "Nyx," is one of only two pilots chosen to fly the experimental "Streaker" jets at the junior Air Force Academy in the year 2048. She's tough and impulsive with lightning-fast reactions, but few know the pain and loneliness of her past or the dark secret about her father. All anyone cares about is that Chase aces the upcoming Streaker trials, proving the prototype jet can knock the enemy out of the sky.
But as the world tilts toward war, Chase cracks open a military secret. There's a third Streaker jet, whose young hotshot pilot, Tristan, can match her on the ground and in the clouds. Chase doesn't play well with others, but to save her country she may just have to put her life in the hands of the competition.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published March 10, 2015
63 people are currently reading
2806 people want to read
About the author
Cory McCarthy
19 books373 followersCORY (previously Cori)
…earned degrees in poetry and screenwriting before falling in love with writing for children and young adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. They have authored four acclaimed YA novels, with a middle grade series, young adult contemporary, and nonfiction picture book forthcoming. Cory coauthored the bestselling ONCE & FUTURE, a finalist for the New England Book Award, with their spouse A.R. Capetta.
…earned degrees in poetry and screenwriting before falling in love with writing for children and young adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts. They have authored four acclaimed YA novels, with a middle grade series, young adult contemporary, and nonfiction picture book forthcoming. Cory coauthored the bestselling ONCE & FUTURE, a finalist for the New England Book Award, with their spouse A.R. Capetta.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
March 11, 2015
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
3 Stars!
I liked this book. I didn't love it but I found it to be rather entertaining. When I first saw the description for this book, I couldn't wait to read it. I immediately thought of the movie "Top Gun" but with a dystopian twist. After reading the book, I really have a lot of mixed feelings about it.
I think that there were some things that were done really well in this book. The story was incredibly fast paced with a lot of action. The characters in this book fly jets - they don't have time to sit around. I liked the flying scenes - the descriptions made it so easy to visualize these planes flying at unimaginable speeds. I liked most of the characters in the story. I actually liked almost all of the characters more than I liked the main character, Chase.
There was quite a few things that I didn't like about this book. I thought it was too much like the movie "Top Gun". Way too much. I have seen that movie many times since it was first released and I know the story pretty well. It was really very disappointing to see so much of the book mirroring that movie. I felt the need to go watch the movie as soon as I finished the book to be honest.
I also found it a bit strange that this group of teenagers are who the United States plans to rely upon to save our country. The manner in which Chase, or Nyx, flys is oftentimes reckless and almost always lacks sound judgement. I wouldn't let her drive my car and I certainly wouldn't let her do some of the stunts she pulls in a plane that could be the country's last hope. I would have liked to know a little bit more about how the world became what it is in this story as well.
I didn't like Chase very much. I understand that things have not always been easy for her but she treats everyone terribly. She does open up to Tristan as the book progresses but it seemed to me to be too little and too late. I didn't understand how all the boys seemed to fall all over her - it just doesn't make sense to me. Chase's character did evolve some and became more likable towards the end of the book.
The parts of the book that I didn't care for as much didn't completely overwhelm the excitement of the story. There are a whole lot of scenes that are simply based on being in the air at the control of these powerful jets. I do think that this book will widely appeal to a teen audience. I realize that I am not the target audience for this book and I do think that teens will find the story quite exciting.
I received a copy of this book from Sourcebooks Fire via Net Galley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
3 Stars!
I liked this book. I didn't love it but I found it to be rather entertaining. When I first saw the description for this book, I couldn't wait to read it. I immediately thought of the movie "Top Gun" but with a dystopian twist. After reading the book, I really have a lot of mixed feelings about it.
I think that there were some things that were done really well in this book. The story was incredibly fast paced with a lot of action. The characters in this book fly jets - they don't have time to sit around. I liked the flying scenes - the descriptions made it so easy to visualize these planes flying at unimaginable speeds. I liked most of the characters in the story. I actually liked almost all of the characters more than I liked the main character, Chase.
There was quite a few things that I didn't like about this book. I thought it was too much like the movie "Top Gun". Way too much. I have seen that movie many times since it was first released and I know the story pretty well. It was really very disappointing to see so much of the book mirroring that movie. I felt the need to go watch the movie as soon as I finished the book to be honest.
I also found it a bit strange that this group of teenagers are who the United States plans to rely upon to save our country. The manner in which Chase, or Nyx, flys is oftentimes reckless and almost always lacks sound judgement. I wouldn't let her drive my car and I certainly wouldn't let her do some of the stunts she pulls in a plane that could be the country's last hope. I would have liked to know a little bit more about how the world became what it is in this story as well.
I didn't like Chase very much. I understand that things have not always been easy for her but she treats everyone terribly. She does open up to Tristan as the book progresses but it seemed to me to be too little and too late. I didn't understand how all the boys seemed to fall all over her - it just doesn't make sense to me. Chase's character did evolve some and became more likable towards the end of the book.
The parts of the book that I didn't care for as much didn't completely overwhelm the excitement of the story. There are a whole lot of scenes that are simply based on being in the air at the control of these powerful jets. I do think that this book will widely appeal to a teen audience. I realize that I am not the target audience for this book and I do think that teens will find the story quite exciting.
I received a copy of this book from Sourcebooks Fire via Net Galley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
March 23, 2015
Me reading the prologue:
Me reading everything after the prologue:
Me reading everything after the prologue:
August 28, 2016
Долго я мусолила эту книженцию, почти все лето. В итоге решила: ну нафиг, жизнь слишком коротка.
Скука смертная, дыры в сюжете и логике, инсталав (прежде чем в кого-то влюбляться, подожди, пока он снимет свой шлем) и штамп на штампе.
Бросаю и рыдаю, ибо эта прелесть у меня в бумаге. Никому не надо? xD
Скука смертная, дыры в сюжете и логике, инсталав (прежде чем в кого-то влюбляться, подожди, пока он снимет свой шлем) и штамп на штампе.
Бросаю и рыдаю, ибо эта прелесть у меня в бумаге. Никому не надо? xD
March 16, 2021
I am disappointed. I thought this sounded so good and it reminded me a tiny bit of Illuminae, so I knew it would be a fun read. I was wrong. I found the main character extremely unlikeable and the plot was very similar to Top Gun, as many reviews have pointed out. I just couldn't get into this and I was glad when it was over.
Chase is the hotshot equivalent of Maverick, but even more cocky and pretty mean. She keeps everyone at arm's length and pushes away anyone who cares for her. She disregards her best friend Pippin's feelings and advice and thinks she can do whatever she wants without consequences. She's literally in the military, yet when she violates orders and risks lives, she's shocked that they might expel her. What do you think the military is?? I never liked her, even when she finally opened up a bit to her friends. I wanted her to evolve more but I feel like she never got there.
Pippin is the best part of the story and I was crushed when his storyline didn't go as I hoped. I guess he was more of a plot device, but I think what happened with him was a poor choice by the author and it was the nail in the coffin of my disliking this.
The last thing I didn't like was that the stakes felt incredibly low. They weren't in a full war, Chase's friends weren't dying left and right, and even the final flying scene was over immediately. Maybe there's supposed to be a sequel where more fighting happens but this needed more of a climax.
This definitely wasn't my cup of coffee (I don't like tea lol) but I hope others like it. Now I'm off to read Illuminae again!
Chase is the hotshot equivalent of Maverick, but even more cocky and pretty mean. She keeps everyone at arm's length and pushes away anyone who cares for her. She disregards her best friend Pippin's feelings and advice and thinks she can do whatever she wants without consequences. She's literally in the military, yet when she violates orders and risks lives, she's shocked that they might expel her. What do you think the military is?? I never liked her, even when she finally opened up a bit to her friends. I wanted her to evolve more but I feel like she never got there.
Pippin is the best part of the story and I was crushed when his storyline didn't go as I hoped. I guess he was more of a plot device, but I think what happened with him was a poor choice by the author and it was the nail in the coffin of my disliking this.
The last thing I didn't like was that the stakes felt incredibly low. They weren't in a full war, Chase's friends weren't dying left and right, and even the final flying scene was over immediately. Maybe there's supposed to be a sequel where more fighting happens but this needed more of a climax.
This definitely wasn't my cup of coffee (I don't like tea lol) but I hope others like it. Now I'm off to read Illuminae again!
March 25, 2021
4.5/5
Once & Future is on of my favorite books ever and I knew I was going to enjoy Cory's other books! I wish I'd read this one sooner. It's also narrated by one of my favorites, so I highly recommend the audiobook.
Chase Harcourt has one true love: flying. One of the two pilots chosen to test out the newest "Streaker" jets, Chase cannot wait for the upcoming trials. Chase is ready to prove she's the best there is, but when she finds there's a secret third pilot, this military secret could bring everything crashing down.
This book was addicting, I loved Chase's passion for flying and how much it was a part of her. She is kind of a brat but I love her? But also, this is fiction, so I will take her subordination in the fake military, because in the real world, she would've been out so fast lmao.
Chase really struggles with emotional vulnerability and has pushed everyone who tried to get close to her away, even her best friend Henry (call sign: Pippin). I loved that these two had each others' backs no matter what and that while they had communication issues, they were working on it. I loved their friendship so much. I also really liked seeing Chase open up to her other cadets and form real friendships with her squadmates.
I do feel like this kind of wrapped up very cleanly and happily for a post-apocalyptic/second cold war book, but I'll accept regardless.
BTW: Chase is a disaster bisexual
Once & Future is on of my favorite books ever and I knew I was going to enjoy Cory's other books! I wish I'd read this one sooner. It's also narrated by one of my favorites, so I highly recommend the audiobook.
Chase Harcourt has one true love: flying. One of the two pilots chosen to test out the newest "Streaker" jets, Chase cannot wait for the upcoming trials. Chase is ready to prove she's the best there is, but when she finds there's a secret third pilot, this military secret could bring everything crashing down.
This book was addicting, I loved Chase's passion for flying and how much it was a part of her. She is kind of a brat but I love her? But also, this is fiction, so I will take her subordination in the fake military, because in the real world, she would've been out so fast lmao.
Chase really struggles with emotional vulnerability and has pushed everyone who tried to get close to her away, even her best friend Henry (call sign: Pippin). I loved that these two had each others' backs no matter what and that while they had communication issues, they were working on it. I loved their friendship so much. I also really liked seeing Chase open up to her other cadets and form real friendships with her squadmates.
I do feel like this kind of wrapped up very cleanly and happily for a post-apocalyptic/second cold war book, but I'll accept regardless.
BTW: Chase is a disaster bisexual
February 12, 2016
I received this free from the publisher via NetGalley
DNF at 40%
The year is 2048 and the USA has isolated itself from the rest of the world. There is a cold war happening between the USA and New Eastern Block. Chase Harcourt, aka 'Nyx' is a pilot for the Air Force Academy, one of two pilots who fly the 'Streaker' jets. She is impulsive and disobedient. One day when Chase is in the sky she thinks she sees another 'Streaker', one that is not from the USA. The world starts to tilt towards war.
I have a new bookish resolution for 2015, and that is to not read a book that I am not enjoying. With university being so busy, I have little time to read, especially in upcoming months, so I decided to not waste my time on books that I'm not enjoying. While I feel bad 'reviewing' a book I haven't finished, I still feel the need to say why I did not finish it.
So, to start with, I just want to say that Breaking Sky just could not hold my attention. I had started to skim read which is never good. One main problem I had was the world building. Perhaps because I hadn't got far enough, but I would assume that by 40% there would be some decent background information and world building. Why is there a cold war? In a book like this you need to give that information. Also why did the USA isolate itself? I understand other countries can't help, but why? Why can't they help? I needed this sort of information in order to fully engage with that dystopian world. Unfortunately, I didn't get any of that information.
Chase was a character that I did admire, but there were a lot that annoyed me. For example constantly breaking the rules, which are there for a reason then is a bit shocked and then worried when she has to suffer the consequences. While she does accept them, she will then go on to break more rules, despite already having a formal warning. She nearly causes a war and nearly heats up a cold war, all to prove a point. She was like a child throwing a tantrum. You would think due to vulnerable and fragile circumstances and tension between the countries she wouldn't start breaking treaties single handedly. There was a lot of slut shaming in Breaking Sky, Chase was constantly getting called a 'skank' and a 'tease' by everyone except her best friend, Henry, aka Pippin. Then when her love interest Tristan came into the picture everything started to get really cliché.
Overall, it was not for me, but that isn't to say that others might not like it.
DNF at 40%
The year is 2048 and the USA has isolated itself from the rest of the world. There is a cold war happening between the USA and New Eastern Block. Chase Harcourt, aka 'Nyx' is a pilot for the Air Force Academy, one of two pilots who fly the 'Streaker' jets. She is impulsive and disobedient. One day when Chase is in the sky she thinks she sees another 'Streaker', one that is not from the USA. The world starts to tilt towards war.
I have a new bookish resolution for 2015, and that is to not read a book that I am not enjoying. With university being so busy, I have little time to read, especially in upcoming months, so I decided to not waste my time on books that I'm not enjoying. While I feel bad 'reviewing' a book I haven't finished, I still feel the need to say why I did not finish it.
So, to start with, I just want to say that Breaking Sky just could not hold my attention. I had started to skim read which is never good. One main problem I had was the world building. Perhaps because I hadn't got far enough, but I would assume that by 40% there would be some decent background information and world building. Why is there a cold war? In a book like this you need to give that information. Also why did the USA isolate itself? I understand other countries can't help, but why? Why can't they help? I needed this sort of information in order to fully engage with that dystopian world. Unfortunately, I didn't get any of that information.
Chase was a character that I did admire, but there were a lot that annoyed me. For example constantly breaking the rules, which are there for a reason then is a bit shocked and then worried when she has to suffer the consequences. While she does accept them, she will then go on to break more rules, despite already having a formal warning. She nearly causes a war and nearly heats up a cold war, all to prove a point. She was like a child throwing a tantrum. You would think due to vulnerable and fragile circumstances and tension between the countries she wouldn't start breaking treaties single handedly. There was a lot of slut shaming in Breaking Sky, Chase was constantly getting called a 'skank' and a 'tease' by everyone except her best friend, Henry, aka Pippin. Then when her love interest Tristan came into the picture everything started to get really cliché.
Overall, it was not for me, but that isn't to say that others might not like it.
July 11, 2015
Thank you NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Breaking Sky is the new dystopia to look forward to read on 2015. I'm so glad I have read this one though it took me a while to finish this because of some unfamiliar terms used in this book. I absolutely love the aeronautic concept in this story. It's exciting, thrilling, just imagining yourself in a fighting jet.. it's an adrenaline rush.
Chase "Nyx" Harcourt is one of the two star pilots to fly an experimental streaker jets against the Red Drones from Ri Xiong Di. Her character is really fascinating, she might be annoying at times but she is one badass lady pilot. She's tough, brave, and a risk taker. Absolutely "Team Nyx" All the way! I also love the little romance between her and Tristan. (I love Tristan.. SERIOUSLY) :)
One thing is for sure, I am looking forward to the next installment. I definitely recommended this if you love dystopia novels like Legend trilogy or Under the Never Sky trilogy
Breaking Sky is the new dystopia to look forward to read on 2015. I'm so glad I have read this one though it took me a while to finish this because of some unfamiliar terms used in this book. I absolutely love the aeronautic concept in this story. It's exciting, thrilling, just imagining yourself in a fighting jet.. it's an adrenaline rush.
Chase "Nyx" Harcourt is one of the two star pilots to fly an experimental streaker jets against the Red Drones from Ri Xiong Di. Her character is really fascinating, she might be annoying at times but she is one badass lady pilot. She's tough, brave, and a risk taker. Absolutely "Team Nyx" All the way! I also love the little romance between her and Tristan. (I love Tristan.. SERIOUSLY) :)
One thing is for sure, I am looking forward to the next installment. I definitely recommended this if you love dystopia novels like Legend trilogy or Under the Never Sky trilogy
March 6, 2016
I have a lot of problems with this book. Without these problems, I may have given this book more than one star. But I can't. Because these problems are HUGE. I'm only going to focus on the giant three, that have me questioning how this even got published.
Here we go.
1) This book is a rip off of the movie Top Gun.
Quick breakdown of how: Chase=Maverick (but female obviously). They both take unnecessary risks. They're flashy and they're showy and they don't give a damn about anyone but themselves. However Mav is actually likeable, whereas Chase is not (more on that later).
Pippin=Goose. This next part contains spoilers for both Breaking Sky and Top Gun. Read at your own peril. Goose was also Mav's closest friend, like Pippin was to Chase. Both characters are more controlled than their reckless partners.
Sylph=Iceman. Even down to the blondeness and impressive physiques. If Sylph is Fighter Jet Barbie, then Ice was Fighter Jet Ken. They're both star pupils and the rival for the main character. They don't break the rules like Mav or Chase does, but they tend to cause drama for them, and always competition.
Also, Top Gun takes place during the Cold War. The pilots are all still in school headed for graduation (except they're in the actual academies, not a school for freaking teens-more on that later), just like our characters. So we have a Cold War setting and enemy Soviet Union MiGs that at the time were probably better tech than anything the US could come up with. Like the Chinese Drones in the Second COLD WAR. Hmmmm... Location changed to China. Ages bumped down. Still pretty much the same story, except Top Gun is better.
So in this regard, this novel is basically Top Gun for teenagers, and the author is probably hoping that the majority of her readers are too young to have ever watched Top Gun. BECAUSE THE STORY IS ALMOST COMPLETELY RIPPED FROM THE MOVIE.
Ok. Breathe. I must calm down.
2) I hate Chase. She is a completely unlikeable character. And she's the main character. Which is not good at all. She's stupid and arrogant which makes her reckless. She disobeys orders and she thinks she's all that. She jeopardizes the safety of her wingmen and her RIO just so she can prove that she's the best. She's got major trust issues and has set off to break every boy's heart at the school. She constantly refers to herself as a flyboy (flygirl is the same damn thing in my opinion), and is always fixing her effing fauxhawk. Really, I think the author wanted to make her a boy and just changed all the pronouns to she at the last minute.
She's as ambiguous as she is androgynous, and for me that just really doesn't work. We never really get to see into Chase. She's all snark and bite and she's using it to hide her mommy and daddy issues, which run deep but are never truthfully addressed. We just get the dodge-and-hide the entire book.
For all her character faults, she's still beloved by every man on base. They either want to be a father figure or get in her pants. I don't get it. In my head, she comes off as a complete douchebag of a girl (and I don't use douchebag for girls very often). But, wait. She's an effing special snowflake, she can do no wrong. Except she does. Over and over and over again and she never truly seems to learn from it.
Characters that don't grow aren't good characters.
Also she decides that the pilot of Phoenix (Tristan) is a guy and has a crush on him before he even ever takes his helmet off. Same thing the other way around. They fly the same so they must be in love! Spare me. The insta-love here is at it's best.
3) I ran into the inability to suspend my disbelief one too many times.
So here's the thing. Every book or movie asks you to suspend your disbelief at one point or another for the sake of the story. In really good books it's done in a way that makes it easy to swallow. It doesn't rip you out of the story and make you snort and say "No effing way." It's subtle and you buy into it. But it has to be crafted right and have a good explanation.
Breaking Sky made me choke. And gag. And snort. And roll my eyes. Because it isn't subtle at all. And the explanations DON'T WORK.
First point: The year is 2048. World War 3 is mentioned at some point, but I don't know if actually took place and then a Cold War followed (much like WWII). Here's the problem with both ideas. I'm reading this in 2016 and I believe it was published in 2015. In the book there was shit that went down in the 2020s, which is not that far away. The 2020s and 2048 are not far enough away anymore that it makes the events in this book plausible. For example even though WWII started in 1939, the conflicts leading up to it started way before that. Italian fascism happened in the 1920s. Japan invaded China in the 1930s. Hitler gained power in 1933. So by that logic, Ri Xiong Di would be making his moves TODAY, and the world would be about to go to pot TODAY.
But that's not actually happening, as far as I'm aware. So to have a full blown Cold War by 2048, I don't think so. If the book had been set 100 years in the future, I wouldn't have a problem with the timeline. But as it stands, this is 32 years in the future. It just doesn't seem plausible to me.
Second point: The age of the pilots and the reason why. You need a really stretchy esophagus to swallow this pill. I'm taking the reasoning right from the book here, and it's explained early on so don't jump on me. This doesn't ruin anything.
Ok. So I'm an registered nurse. I have been through multiple biology courses (including anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology) as well as developmental psych courses. I am not an expert, but I am learned, and I can tell you this, everything in the above quote is WRONG.
Teenagers are still growing which leaves them open to MORE injuries. Their bodies are still constantly changing which means they have to be constantly retraining them to handle the speeds the streakers fly at. A full grown adult would be better prepared and more able to handle the speeds because their body isn't changing. They are in their prime (which is not teenagerhood, it's 20s-30s, possibly even up to 35). The reason it's called "prime" is because that is when the body is in the BEST physical shape it will EVER be in.
Onto reflexes. Yes, teenagers are fast. However, studies have shown over and over again that an adult male in his 20s has the best reflexes and reaction time than any other age group. Remember, teenagers are still growing, so they have to learn to adjust and also during growth spurts can be awkward and clumsy. So, sorry, but their reaction time is better? No. It isn't.
Last bit, and this is the bit that made me burst out laughing. They apparently have a better mental agility. Okay. Right. How about not? A teenager's brain isn't even fully developed yet. The prefrontal cortex (which is responsible for decision making) isn't fully developed until a person is in their 20s. Which means that an adult would be far preferred to teenager when flying these jets. They will be more able to make a sound decision.
So by real life data, a man in his mid twenties would be the best candidate to fly the jets (a woman could to, her durability and reaction times would be just a little less). Not a teenager.
A more plausible reason could have been coupled with setting things 100 years in the future. By that time it could have been acceptable practice instead of sending kids to schools to sending them to military academies and preparing them for war so that by the time they were 16 they'd have 10 years of training under their belts.
Anyway. I'm off. Just one more thing to say .
Here we go.
1) This book is a rip off of the movie Top Gun.
Quick breakdown of how: Chase=Maverick (but female obviously). They both take unnecessary risks. They're flashy and they're showy and they don't give a damn about anyone but themselves. However Mav is actually likeable, whereas Chase is not (more on that later).
Pippin=Goose. This next part contains spoilers for both Breaking Sky and Top Gun. Read at your own peril. Goose was also Mav's closest friend, like Pippin was to Chase. Both characters are more controlled than their reckless partners.
Sylph=Iceman. Even down to the blondeness and impressive physiques. If Sylph is Fighter Jet Barbie, then Ice was Fighter Jet Ken. They're both star pupils and the rival for the main character. They don't break the rules like Mav or Chase does, but they tend to cause drama for them, and always competition.
Also, Top Gun takes place during the Cold War. The pilots are all still in school headed for graduation (except they're in the actual academies, not a school for freaking teens-more on that later), just like our characters. So we have a Cold War setting and enemy Soviet Union MiGs that at the time were probably better tech than anything the US could come up with. Like the Chinese Drones in the Second COLD WAR. Hmmmm... Location changed to China. Ages bumped down. Still pretty much the same story, except Top Gun is better.
So in this regard, this novel is basically Top Gun for teenagers, and the author is probably hoping that the majority of her readers are too young to have ever watched Top Gun. BECAUSE THE STORY IS ALMOST COMPLETELY RIPPED FROM THE MOVIE.
Ok. Breathe. I must calm down.
2) I hate Chase. She is a completely unlikeable character. And she's the main character. Which is not good at all. She's stupid and arrogant which makes her reckless. She disobeys orders and she thinks she's all that. She jeopardizes the safety of her wingmen and her RIO just so she can prove that she's the best. She's got major trust issues and has set off to break every boy's heart at the school. She constantly refers to herself as a flyboy (flygirl is the same damn thing in my opinion), and is always fixing her effing fauxhawk. Really, I think the author wanted to make her a boy and just changed all the pronouns to she at the last minute.
She's as ambiguous as she is androgynous, and for me that just really doesn't work. We never really get to see into Chase. She's all snark and bite and she's using it to hide her mommy and daddy issues, which run deep but are never truthfully addressed. We just get the dodge-and-hide the entire book.
For all her character faults, she's still beloved by every man on base. They either want to be a father figure or get in her pants. I don't get it. In my head, she comes off as a complete douchebag of a girl (and I don't use douchebag for girls very often). But, wait. She's an effing special snowflake, she can do no wrong. Except she does. Over and over and over again and she never truly seems to learn from it.
Characters that don't grow aren't good characters.
Also she decides that the pilot of Phoenix (Tristan) is a guy and has a crush on him before he even ever takes his helmet off. Same thing the other way around. They fly the same so they must be in love! Spare me. The insta-love here is at it's best.
3) I ran into the inability to suspend my disbelief one too many times.
So here's the thing. Every book or movie asks you to suspend your disbelief at one point or another for the sake of the story. In really good books it's done in a way that makes it easy to swallow. It doesn't rip you out of the story and make you snort and say "No effing way." It's subtle and you buy into it. But it has to be crafted right and have a good explanation.
Breaking Sky made me choke. And gag. And snort. And roll my eyes. Because it isn't subtle at all. And the explanations DON'T WORK.
First point: The year is 2048. World War 3 is mentioned at some point, but I don't know if actually took place and then a Cold War followed (much like WWII). Here's the problem with both ideas. I'm reading this in 2016 and I believe it was published in 2015. In the book there was shit that went down in the 2020s, which is not that far away. The 2020s and 2048 are not far enough away anymore that it makes the events in this book plausible. For example even though WWII started in 1939, the conflicts leading up to it started way before that. Italian fascism happened in the 1920s. Japan invaded China in the 1930s. Hitler gained power in 1933. So by that logic, Ri Xiong Di would be making his moves TODAY, and the world would be about to go to pot TODAY.
But that's not actually happening, as far as I'm aware. So to have a full blown Cold War by 2048, I don't think so. If the book had been set 100 years in the future, I wouldn't have a problem with the timeline. But as it stands, this is 32 years in the future. It just doesn't seem plausible to me.
Second point: The age of the pilots and the reason why. You need a really stretchy esophagus to swallow this pill. I'm taking the reasoning right from the book here, and it's explained early on so don't jump on me. This doesn't ruin anything.
Only teenagers have the physical durability, impulse-fast reflexes, and mental agility to adjust to the demands of the engines.
Ok. So I'm an registered nurse. I have been through multiple biology courses (including anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology) as well as developmental psych courses. I am not an expert, but I am learned, and I can tell you this, everything in the above quote is WRONG.
Teenagers are still growing which leaves them open to MORE injuries. Their bodies are still constantly changing which means they have to be constantly retraining them to handle the speeds the streakers fly at. A full grown adult would be better prepared and more able to handle the speeds because their body isn't changing. They are in their prime (which is not teenagerhood, it's 20s-30s, possibly even up to 35). The reason it's called "prime" is because that is when the body is in the BEST physical shape it will EVER be in.
Onto reflexes. Yes, teenagers are fast. However, studies have shown over and over again that an adult male in his 20s has the best reflexes and reaction time than any other age group. Remember, teenagers are still growing, so they have to learn to adjust and also during growth spurts can be awkward and clumsy. So, sorry, but their reaction time is better? No. It isn't.
Last bit, and this is the bit that made me burst out laughing. They apparently have a better mental agility. Okay. Right. How about not? A teenager's brain isn't even fully developed yet. The prefrontal cortex (which is responsible for decision making) isn't fully developed until a person is in their 20s. Which means that an adult would be far preferred to teenager when flying these jets. They will be more able to make a sound decision.
So by real life data, a man in his mid twenties would be the best candidate to fly the jets (a woman could to, her durability and reaction times would be just a little less). Not a teenager.
A more plausible reason could have been coupled with setting things 100 years in the future. By that time it could have been acceptable practice instead of sending kids to schools to sending them to military academies and preparing them for war so that by the time they were 16 they'd have 10 years of training under their belts.
Anyway. I'm off. Just one more thing to say .
September 19, 2014
I was recently able to get my hands on an ARC for this novel.
This is McCarthy's follow up to the excellent Color of Rain and it DOES NOT DISAPPOINT!! I have a new hero and she goes by the call sign "Nyx".
McCarthy has crafted a fantastic world and a great story. Breaking Sky takes place in the near future where America is in forced isolation from the rest of the world by the Ri Xiong Di, the controlling faction of the New Eastern Bloc. The two nations are embroiled in a second Cold War. America is kept at bay by the supreme air superiority of the Red Drone swarms in service to the Ri Xiong Di. America's only hope is in the new secret fighter jet program called the Streakers, advanced jets capable of speeds and maneuvers so extreme that only the young, hot-shot pilots of the Star (their home base of operations) are able to fly them to capacity. These young "flyboys" and their support teams are the focus of the story as they train and push the performance limits of these new machines.
I won't dive too deep into the story, but the world McCarthy has created feels completely real and lived in. The world is built very slowly and subtly without any large exposition dumps.
What I enjoyed most were the deep and complex characters this author was able to create, especially Chase, call sign Nyx. I turned page after page following Chase as she navigates this world, more comfortable traveling at three times the speed of sound than speaking to her fellow cadets. She is a fantastic protag and a wonderful guide through this world.
All of McCarthy's characters are so well fleshed out and I was left wanting to dive into their stories as well. I developed an instant love for Henry, call sign Pippin, Nyx's Radar Operator.
I tore through this book as fast as I possibly could, always wondering what would come next. McCarthy's book is simultaneously suspenseful, funny and heartbreaking. I love not only the story but the way she writes. Fantastic prose with just a touch of whimsy. A great novel and I can't wait to see what she has in store next. TEAM NYX!!!!
This is McCarthy's follow up to the excellent Color of Rain and it DOES NOT DISAPPOINT!! I have a new hero and she goes by the call sign "Nyx".
McCarthy has crafted a fantastic world and a great story. Breaking Sky takes place in the near future where America is in forced isolation from the rest of the world by the Ri Xiong Di, the controlling faction of the New Eastern Bloc. The two nations are embroiled in a second Cold War. America is kept at bay by the supreme air superiority of the Red Drone swarms in service to the Ri Xiong Di. America's only hope is in the new secret fighter jet program called the Streakers, advanced jets capable of speeds and maneuvers so extreme that only the young, hot-shot pilots of the Star (their home base of operations) are able to fly them to capacity. These young "flyboys" and their support teams are the focus of the story as they train and push the performance limits of these new machines.
I won't dive too deep into the story, but the world McCarthy has created feels completely real and lived in. The world is built very slowly and subtly without any large exposition dumps.
What I enjoyed most were the deep and complex characters this author was able to create, especially Chase, call sign Nyx. I turned page after page following Chase as she navigates this world, more comfortable traveling at three times the speed of sound than speaking to her fellow cadets. She is a fantastic protag and a wonderful guide through this world.
All of McCarthy's characters are so well fleshed out and I was left wanting to dive into their stories as well. I developed an instant love for Henry, call sign Pippin, Nyx's Radar Operator.
I tore through this book as fast as I possibly could, always wondering what would come next. McCarthy's book is simultaneously suspenseful, funny and heartbreaking. I love not only the story but the way she writes. Fantastic prose with just a touch of whimsy. A great novel and I can't wait to see what she has in store next. TEAM NYX!!!!
March 14, 2015
**I received this book for free from (Sourcebooks Fire) via (NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Young Adult, Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5
*My Thoughts*
Set in the near future (2048) where the US is isolated and alone in the world, Breaking Sky has all the elements of being the little sister to big brother Top Gun with perhaps a bit of Ender's Game. But, instead of hot shot Navy pilots led by Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer, Cori McCarthy introduces readers to a trio of teenaged pilots that are on the front lines of America's hope of staving off the Second World War, and the red drones operated by Ri Xiong Di that have left America digging for small miracles.
Breaking's main character is Chase Harcourt, better known as call sign Nyx. Chase is a daredevil with quick reaction times, a bit on the reckless side, and a show-off. But, she is also one of the best pilots at The United Star Academy where teen phenoms do everything that adults do. Put aside for a moment that Chase isn't necessarily a character who will go down in literary history as another Katniss. She has some issues with relationships. She likes to fool around, but never lets anyone close. Her father is one of the most notorious fighter pilots to ever live, while her mother is as useless as a mosquito on a hot summers night. What's a girl to do?
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews 03/14/2015* Link to Follow, I swear it!
*Recvd via NetGalley 10/31/2014* Published: March 3rd 2015 by Sourcebooks Fire
*Genre* Young Adult, Science Fiction
*Rating* 3.5
*My Thoughts*
Set in the near future (2048) where the US is isolated and alone in the world, Breaking Sky has all the elements of being the little sister to big brother Top Gun with perhaps a bit of Ender's Game. But, instead of hot shot Navy pilots led by Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer, Cori McCarthy introduces readers to a trio of teenaged pilots that are on the front lines of America's hope of staving off the Second World War, and the red drones operated by Ri Xiong Di that have left America digging for small miracles.
Breaking's main character is Chase Harcourt, better known as call sign Nyx. Chase is a daredevil with quick reaction times, a bit on the reckless side, and a show-off. But, she is also one of the best pilots at The United Star Academy where teen phenoms do everything that adults do. Put aside for a moment that Chase isn't necessarily a character who will go down in literary history as another Katniss. She has some issues with relationships. She likes to fool around, but never lets anyone close. Her father is one of the most notorious fighter pilots to ever live, while her mother is as useless as a mosquito on a hot summers night. What's a girl to do?
*Full Review Posting @ Gizmos Reviews 03/14/2015* Link to Follow, I swear it!
*Recvd via NetGalley 10/31/2014* Published: March 3rd 2015 by Sourcebooks Fire
March 9, 2015
When I first read the premise for Breaking Sky, I was immediately intrigued by the fact that Chase is not only a jet flyer, but a teen female pilot chosen to fly an experimental new jet known as the "Streaker." I'm all for "girl-power" so I had to see for myself what this new heroine was all about.
Breaking Sky revolves around an elite group of teens training to fly experimental jets as the threat of a new cold war escalates. Chase Harcourt, aka "Nyx," is one of the two pilots chosen to secretly train flying these new prototype jets. But, she's not alone. There's a third Streaker jet whose pilot can match Chase. A pilot that threatens to topple her from the competition she's fought so hard to win.
The story has the same feel and vibe to it as the movie Top Gun, but with teens and a futuristic / dystopian setting of an isolated America that is no longer a super-power. Most of the action takes place in the sky. The writing delivers some great adrenaline pop as daredevil flying, dangerous-heart stopping maneuvers, and thrilling fighter sequences are in no shortage. These aerodynamics were pretty amazing to read and the author made me feel like I was in the cockpit with the Streakers!
Chase is a hot-shot flyer. Impulsive, a risk-taker and an adrenaline junkie for breaking Mach speed. Her lightning reflexes and unpredictability are just what is needed to fly a Streaker, making her a favorite pilot. I loved her fierce attitude when it came to flying, but I had a harder time accepting her uses of boys as an unemotional outlet. Thankfully, a turnaround in her attitude occurred. A positive lesson learned that gave me an heroine I could be okay with. By the end of the story, I couldn't help but root for her.
Secondary characters are really well done. Her RIO (co-pilot) "Pippin" is adorable and boyish, in a "brainygonecuteway." I enjoyed his character nearly as much as Chase's. The other Streaker team members added to the story too. Sylph is the second Streaker pilot, and she's equally badass in the sky. She gets Chase and their frenemy relationship added some much-needed humor.
The romance is what made me see a new, softer and emotional side of Chase that was not there before. Tristan brings out all the warm and cozy feels, and Chase ends up opening up to him emotionally which as so sweet. The connection they have together gave me some sweet swoons.
My one disappointment was the overall sense of not really feeling the danger or threat that the enemy Ri Xiong Di presented. A brief background was given as to why a new cold war was possible and how America ended up being a isolated and nearly powerless, but I just didn't feel that aspect. Although, the imminent threat of the Chinese Red Drone felt very real!
The high point for Breaking Sky for me ended up being the superb descriptions of jet flying and the pure adrenaline-like rush it elicited, making it a fun and adventurous read to escape to.
My RATING: 3.5 Stars. I like it!
PLEASE NOTE: A courtesy review copy of this book was provided by Sourcebooks Fire in exchange for my fair review. Thank you, Sourcebooks Fire for the review opportunity!
Breaking Sky revolves around an elite group of teens training to fly experimental jets as the threat of a new cold war escalates. Chase Harcourt, aka "Nyx," is one of the two pilots chosen to secretly train flying these new prototype jets. But, she's not alone. There's a third Streaker jet whose pilot can match Chase. A pilot that threatens to topple her from the competition she's fought so hard to win.
The story has the same feel and vibe to it as the movie Top Gun, but with teens and a futuristic / dystopian setting of an isolated America that is no longer a super-power. Most of the action takes place in the sky. The writing delivers some great adrenaline pop as daredevil flying, dangerous-heart stopping maneuvers, and thrilling fighter sequences are in no shortage. These aerodynamics were pretty amazing to read and the author made me feel like I was in the cockpit with the Streakers!
Chase is a hot-shot flyer. Impulsive, a risk-taker and an adrenaline junkie for breaking Mach speed. Her lightning reflexes and unpredictability are just what is needed to fly a Streaker, making her a favorite pilot. I loved her fierce attitude when it came to flying, but I had a harder time accepting her uses of boys as an unemotional outlet. Thankfully, a turnaround in her attitude occurred. A positive lesson learned that gave me an heroine I could be okay with. By the end of the story, I couldn't help but root for her.
Secondary characters are really well done. Her RIO (co-pilot) "Pippin" is adorable and boyish, in a "brainygonecuteway." I enjoyed his character nearly as much as Chase's. The other Streaker team members added to the story too. Sylph is the second Streaker pilot, and she's equally badass in the sky. She gets Chase and their frenemy relationship added some much-needed humor.
The romance is what made me see a new, softer and emotional side of Chase that was not there before. Tristan brings out all the warm and cozy feels, and Chase ends up opening up to him emotionally which as so sweet. The connection they have together gave me some sweet swoons.
My one disappointment was the overall sense of not really feeling the danger or threat that the enemy Ri Xiong Di presented. A brief background was given as to why a new cold war was possible and how America ended up being a isolated and nearly powerless, but I just didn't feel that aspect. Although, the imminent threat of the Chinese Red Drone felt very real!
The high point for Breaking Sky for me ended up being the superb descriptions of jet flying and the pure adrenaline-like rush it elicited, making it a fun and adventurous read to escape to.
My RATING: 3.5 Stars. I like it!
PLEASE NOTE: A courtesy review copy of this book was provided by Sourcebooks Fire in exchange for my fair review. Thank you, Sourcebooks Fire for the review opportunity!
August 2, 2016
Although the main character kind of drove me crazy from the beginning, and the narrative had minor irritants, such as confusing imagery and random sentences from other characters' perspectives, I mostly enjoyed this book -- until its last twenty percent or so. If I had kept the prologue more in the forefront of my mind, I might have been warier throughout the reading experience and connected the dots to what was coming. I am fairly certain that I would have wound up just as angry, though.
Having a QUILTBAG (specifically, in this case, gay) supporting character who is at least semi-realized is good; it somewhat counterbalances the main character's flippant "Curiosity and all" nod to her own lone same-sex dalliance. However, not having anyone acknowledge, aside from a couple tiny hints that most readers probably would not have noticed, that the supporting character might be gay until maybe the halfway point (whether because the main character is so self-centered in her perspective, because the author prefers to keep the supporting character closeted, or for whatever other reason) is not so good. Killing the gay supporting character to further the plot and the main character's growth is bull. And proving that the author is aware of this damaging "Bury Your Gays" fiction trope by having that dying character say, "I hate these movies. They always kill the gay kid," is infuriating, needlessly knife-twisting bull*. It is on-par with authors including an opening dedication to the queer fans they purportedly love, to whom they say "it gets better," before in the same book horribly killing one-half of their series' only queer couple. I felt like the author spat on me, and I wanted to spit in turn. I need a mental palate cleanser.
I finished the book only because I was hoping, despite the prologue -- which I had earlier expected, from Chase's excessive focus on him, would rather refer to Tristan --, and despite myself, for a different revelation, that Henry had survived or been revived after all. Instead I was left shaking with outrage and shock and an abhorrence for the idea of going near any of Cori McCarthy's writing ever again. Had I been reading a physical book rather than an e-book, at the end I definitely would have been emulating Bradley Cooper in Silver Linings Playbook.
Giving the book two or three stars for my earlier general enjoyment would be fairer of me, but I simply cannot conscience that.
*Making a reference like that when the character then survives, as was done with characters of color (one of whom was also a Star Trek "Red Shirt"-type character) in the movies Evolution and Galaxy Quest, is cute and maybe clever. Not so in this case.
Having a QUILTBAG (specifically, in this case, gay) supporting character who is at least semi-realized is good; it somewhat counterbalances the main character's flippant "Curiosity and all" nod to her own lone same-sex dalliance. However, not having anyone acknowledge, aside from a couple tiny hints that most readers probably would not have noticed, that the supporting character might be gay until maybe the halfway point (whether because the main character is so self-centered in her perspective, because the author prefers to keep the supporting character closeted, or for whatever other reason) is not so good. Killing the gay supporting character to further the plot and the main character's growth is bull. And proving that the author is aware of this damaging "Bury Your Gays" fiction trope by having that dying character say, "I hate these movies. They always kill the gay kid," is infuriating, needlessly knife-twisting bull*. It is on-par with authors including an opening dedication to the queer fans they purportedly love, to whom they say "it gets better," before in the same book horribly killing one-half of their series' only queer couple. I felt like the author spat on me, and I wanted to spit in turn. I need a mental palate cleanser.
I finished the book only because I was hoping, despite the prologue -- which I had earlier expected, from Chase's excessive focus on him, would rather refer to Tristan --, and despite myself, for a different revelation, that Henry had survived or been revived after all. Instead I was left shaking with outrage and shock and an abhorrence for the idea of going near any of Cori McCarthy's writing ever again. Had I been reading a physical book rather than an e-book, at the end I definitely would have been emulating Bradley Cooper in Silver Linings Playbook.
Giving the book two or three stars for my earlier general enjoyment would be fairer of me, but I simply cannot conscience that.
*Making a reference like that when the character then survives, as was done with characters of color (one of whom was also a Star Trek "Red Shirt"-type character) in the movies Evolution and Galaxy Quest, is cute and maybe clever. Not so in this case.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2015
Dear fellow reader, this review is going to be one big spoiler-a-thon. It might turn into a bit of a rant-a-thon too, if I can muster the strength. I'll tag the very spoiler-y spoilers, but if you don't want too much military intelligence on this book, I suggest you say No Joy (aviator slang for: failure to make visual sighting; or inability to establish radio communications) and turn your jet towards a spoiler-free airspace.
Welcome, those of you who got past that disclaimer. Let's start this debrief.
This book is a bit of a hot-mess, surprisingly a mostly enjoyable hot-mess, but still: a hot mess. It probably even has true enjoyability potential, if one can look past its many infractions.
First of all, this book seems to have been greatly influenced by Top Gun. It has a lot of similar elements going for it. I was loving this Top Gun vibe and ignoring all the similarities, until there came one point in the plot when the story became too much of a deja vu of Top Gun. This is both a plus and a minus. It is very luring bait for die-hard Top Guns fans. But said fans might be kinda annoyed by the many parallels in the story.
This novel is set in a dystopian future. Problem is, we are given next to no background about how that future got to be. All the information we get about the book's setting could fit into one freaking page of the novel. Breaking Sky talks a big talk, throwing terms like The Second Cold War and threats of a Third World War into the mix. It doesn't really go into any details about any of the events leading up to this Second Cold War. And NO, a one liner explanation and a lot of sparsely sprinkled vague-as-hell hints in the book aren't going to cut it. How did the US become as isolated as it did? Why didn't their age old allies stick with 'em? How did the baddies of the book, the New Eastern Bloc, get that far ahead of the US in technology that they could bully them to this extant? Which countries are EVEN included in this New Eastern Bloc? Sure the New Eastern Bloc is making US's life hell, but how are they treating the countries under their active control? How bad really are these baddies? There was a one liner hint about the New Eastern Bloc battling it out for the control of Europe. Come on book, give me the 411 on that situation. Did all the other world powers and nuclear states just roll over and join this evil conglomeration or did they fight the good fight? What happened book? What frigging happened? So many burning questions, you guys. No freaking answers.
Breaking Sky takes insta-love to the next level. Two pilots meet mid-air at MACH3 or whatever speeds and instantly have this insane chemistry. The insta-ness of this is irksome. At the same time, I can't deny that this instant chemistry is very hot.
Chase dove under the jet. God, it was blinding fast. The pilot tilted into her space, their wings nearly kissing. She’d never gotten remotely this close to Sylph’s bird in the air…it made her laugh out loud and test how much closer she could get. The other pilot’s bloodred helmet shot a look her way, and she had the funniest feeling he was laughing too.
This book has a very weird slut-shaming thing going on. Chase our hot-shot gifted pilot is supposedly the ultimate heart breaker, she has broken the hearts of many lesser mortals and is constantly called out on it by her fellow pilots, by the airbase psychiatrist, by the Commander General and even by Chase's own best friend Pippin. Granted Pippin hands these lectures out in a winning fashion, but this is really UNCOOL book. All y'all need to quit it with this slut-shaming. Irony of all ironies, Chase hasn't even been completely intimate with anyone. All I can say to all these heart torn long line of airmen is: All y'all should have taken a hint, she's just not that into you. Also, stop calling ladies names AND bloody learn to take rejection. Move on pals. Kay, Thanks!
“And while we’re airing things out, Tristan Router is in love with you. Bravo Zulu. You’re going to need a bigger basket for all those stolen hearts.”
I don't agree with all this hatred for General Tourn.
This book lays it a little too thick with the aviator slang. But that was great news for me, I LOVE aviator slang.
I like the complicated friendship between Chase and Pippin. They are both ass-hats in general and ass-hats to each other at least half of the time. They do make up for their ass-hat-ness in the other half of the time. At any rate, they both get a good grade in banter.
“Ready for the speed of heat, Pippin baby?” A little ire slipped in with her zeal.
“Always, Nyxy muffin,” he deadpanned while messing with his controls. Someone chuckled over the radio, and Chase bristled.
“What’s so funny?” she demanded.
“Nothing, honey badger,” Tristan said.
This is Chase and Pippin 50% of the time:
Pippin's fan-boy levels of Geekdom is adorable.
“Hey, Ender, come back to the starship,” Pippin
Speaking of relationships, I liked the one between Chase and Kale, the father figure.
Though, he did give her a bit too much lineancy to run amock and do all kinds of cray-cray stunts. He can give all the stern lectures he wants later. They didn't really serve as a deterrent.
At one point in the story, an adult shows up and says:
“That’s what…we get for…letting kids fly.”
That my friends right there sums up this entire book. This book is what you get when you let impulsive and idjit teens fly.
Which brings me to the REASONS for letting teens fly. The premise and believability of this book (unbelievable political situation notwithstanding) hinges on this idea:
“Only teenagers have the physical durability, impulse-fast reflexes, and mental agility to adjust to the demands of the engines. You learn with the speed of heat.”
Only teenagers can fly the super fast experimental jets of this book. Eh, I'm not really sold on this premise, it doesn't work for me. What if it turns out that monkeys have even faster durability, reflexes and mental agility. Would we let monkeys fly too? Also, you know what would be faster? Answer: unmanned drones, like the New Eastern Bloc's red drones. That'd be faster, but it was too un-original for the good ol' US of A in this fictional world, so they went with teenagers in multi-billion jet planes.
Pop quiz hotshots: The New Eastern Bloc has super advanced unmanned red drones that no aircraft stands a chance against. The US Air Force tries to come up with technology that can counter these red drones. Question: what should this tech be?
a) Superior US Drones that can level the playing field. Sounds logical, right? Fight fire with fire.
b) Sic Sebastien Millon's Evil Ninja Bunny on those read drones? Hells Yeah! This option would be my personal preference.
c) Fight unmanned jets with prototype manned jets. Jets manned by IMBECILE teenagers.
Yeah, I can see how that third option made so much sense *face palm*. I repeat: “That’s what we get for letting kids fly.”
I'll admit this much, Tristan is of the top-notch swoon material. I heart him.
But can we talk about how cheesy some of the romance was. Some of it was just plain ol' unbelievable. Like squish-sleeping in a cockpit? Urgh, NO. How come they didn't run out of oxygen in that uncomfortably enclosed space and die? These are questions that demand scientific analysis, LOL.
Oh and Chase was this robot in the beginning, the lone wolf, she who hath no feelings, shared no feelings, sweated no feelings.
Chase was carrying around a ton of emotional baggage. Thankfully, this particular story arc progressed and concluded nicely enough.
This book alternates between air force action and very long intervals of teen melodrama of the Laguna Beach variety. The teens are the most reckless nitwits, make the WORST judgement calls and get away with tons of rule breaking and crap.
The teen pilots nearly cause the 3rd world war multiple times and other crazy shizz because they can't frigging exercise sound judgement and keep their impulses in check. Yep, “That’s what we get for letting kids fly.”
Problematic, yet entertaining. “That’s what we get for letting kids fly.”
Welcome, those of you who got past that disclaimer. Let's start this debrief.
This book is a bit of a hot-mess, surprisingly a mostly enjoyable hot-mess, but still: a hot mess. It probably even has true enjoyability potential, if one can look past its many infractions.
First of all, this book seems to have been greatly influenced by Top Gun. It has a lot of similar elements going for it. I was loving this Top Gun vibe and ignoring all the similarities, until there came one point in the plot when the story became too much of a deja vu of Top Gun. This is both a plus and a minus. It is very luring bait for die-hard Top Guns fans. But said fans might be kinda annoyed by the many parallels in the story.
This novel is set in a dystopian future. Problem is, we are given next to no background about how that future got to be. All the information we get about the book's setting could fit into one freaking page of the novel. Breaking Sky talks a big talk, throwing terms like The Second Cold War and threats of a Third World War into the mix. It doesn't really go into any details about any of the events leading up to this Second Cold War. And NO, a one liner explanation and a lot of sparsely sprinkled vague-as-hell hints in the book aren't going to cut it. How did the US become as isolated as it did? Why didn't their age old allies stick with 'em? How did the baddies of the book, the New Eastern Bloc, get that far ahead of the US in technology that they could bully them to this extant? Which countries are EVEN included in this New Eastern Bloc? Sure the New Eastern Bloc is making US's life hell, but how are they treating the countries under their active control? How bad really are these baddies? There was a one liner hint about the New Eastern Bloc battling it out for the control of Europe. Come on book, give me the 411 on that situation. Did all the other world powers and nuclear states just roll over and join this evil conglomeration or did they fight the good fight? What happened book? What frigging happened? So many burning questions, you guys. No freaking answers.
Breaking Sky takes insta-love to the next level. Two pilots meet mid-air at MACH3 or whatever speeds and instantly have this insane chemistry. The insta-ness of this is irksome. At the same time, I can't deny that this instant chemistry is very hot.
Chase dove under the jet. God, it was blinding fast. The pilot tilted into her space, their wings nearly kissing. She’d never gotten remotely this close to Sylph’s bird in the air…it made her laugh out loud and test how much closer she could get. The other pilot’s bloodred helmet shot a look her way, and she had the funniest feeling he was laughing too.
This book has a very weird slut-shaming thing going on. Chase our hot-shot gifted pilot is supposedly the ultimate heart breaker, she has broken the hearts of many lesser mortals and is constantly called out on it by her fellow pilots, by the airbase psychiatrist, by the Commander General and even by Chase's own best friend Pippin. Granted Pippin hands these lectures out in a winning fashion, but this is really UNCOOL book. All y'all need to quit it with this slut-shaming. Irony of all ironies, Chase hasn't even been completely intimate with anyone. All I can say to all these heart torn long line of airmen is: All y'all should have taken a hint, she's just not that into you. Also, stop calling ladies names AND bloody learn to take rejection. Move on pals. Kay, Thanks!
“And while we’re airing things out, Tristan Router is in love with you. Bravo Zulu. You’re going to need a bigger basket for all those stolen hearts.”
I don't agree with all this hatred for General Tourn.
This book lays it a little too thick with the aviator slang. But that was great news for me, I LOVE aviator slang.
I like the complicated friendship between Chase and Pippin. They are both ass-hats in general and ass-hats to each other at least half of the time. They do make up for their ass-hat-ness in the other half of the time. At any rate, they both get a good grade in banter.
“Ready for the speed of heat, Pippin baby?” A little ire slipped in with her zeal.
“Always, Nyxy muffin,” he deadpanned while messing with his controls. Someone chuckled over the radio, and Chase bristled.
“What’s so funny?” she demanded.
“Nothing, honey badger,” Tristan said.
This is Chase and Pippin 50% of the time:
Pippin's fan-boy levels of Geekdom is adorable.
“Hey, Ender, come back to the starship,” Pippin
Speaking of relationships, I liked the one between Chase and Kale, the father figure.
Though, he did give her a bit too much lineancy to run amock and do all kinds of cray-cray stunts. He can give all the stern lectures he wants later. They didn't really serve as a deterrent.
At one point in the story, an adult shows up and says:
“That’s what…we get for…letting kids fly.”
That my friends right there sums up this entire book. This book is what you get when you let impulsive and idjit teens fly.
Which brings me to the REASONS for letting teens fly. The premise and believability of this book (unbelievable political situation notwithstanding) hinges on this idea:
“Only teenagers have the physical durability, impulse-fast reflexes, and mental agility to adjust to the demands of the engines. You learn with the speed of heat.”
Only teenagers can fly the super fast experimental jets of this book. Eh, I'm not really sold on this premise, it doesn't work for me. What if it turns out that monkeys have even faster durability, reflexes and mental agility. Would we let monkeys fly too? Also, you know what would be faster? Answer: unmanned drones, like the New Eastern Bloc's red drones. That'd be faster, but it was too un-original for the good ol' US of A in this fictional world, so they went with teenagers in multi-billion jet planes.
Pop quiz hotshots: The New Eastern Bloc has super advanced unmanned red drones that no aircraft stands a chance against. The US Air Force tries to come up with technology that can counter these red drones. Question: what should this tech be?
a) Superior US Drones that can level the playing field. Sounds logical, right? Fight fire with fire.
b) Sic Sebastien Millon's Evil Ninja Bunny on those read drones? Hells Yeah! This option would be my personal preference.
c) Fight unmanned jets with prototype manned jets. Jets manned by IMBECILE teenagers.
Yeah, I can see how that third option made so much sense *face palm*. I repeat: “That’s what we get for letting kids fly.”
I'll admit this much, Tristan is of the top-notch swoon material. I heart him.
But can we talk about how cheesy some of the romance was. Some of it was just plain ol' unbelievable. Like squish-sleeping in a cockpit? Urgh, NO. How come they didn't run out of oxygen in that uncomfortably enclosed space and die? These are questions that demand scientific analysis, LOL.
Oh and Chase was this robot in the beginning, the lone wolf, she who hath no feelings, shared no feelings, sweated no feelings.
Chase was carrying around a ton of emotional baggage. Thankfully, this particular story arc progressed and concluded nicely enough.
This book alternates between air force action and very long intervals of teen melodrama of the Laguna Beach variety. The teens are the most reckless nitwits, make the WORST judgement calls and get away with tons of rule breaking and crap.
The teen pilots nearly cause the 3rd world war multiple times and other crazy shizz because they can't frigging exercise sound judgement and keep their impulses in check. Yep, “That’s what we get for letting kids fly.”
Problematic, yet entertaining. “That’s what we get for letting kids fly.”
February 24, 2015
America has lost its world dominance and enemy drones are wreaking havoc on its survival. All hopes rest on an elite group of teenaged warrior flyers trained to be the best of the best in super-secret fighter jets that, under the right pilots could save the country. Two jets exist, and Chase has made it her mission to be one of those elite pilots. Brilliant, driven and a little too impetuous, Chase has demons to beat down in her mind, one flight at a time. A star in the skies, back on solid ground, she trusts no one but her RIO and best friend, Pippin. They are a team, a unit and no matter what she does he has her back, but even he doesn’t know the full extent of what drives her to perfection, to take too many chances and to not care what anyone thinks of her.
Imagine, seeing another Streaker jet appear, only to discover that the Canadians also have an ace pilot, who might even be better than Chase. Tristan has the maturity that Chase lacks, he is secure in his own skin, more rational in his thought processes and for Chase, he might as well BE the enemy. If the fate of the world rests on their shoulders, they must learn to train as a team, fight as a team and have each others back, but is it possible? There is some chemistry, but is it sparks of emotion or a ticking time bomb waiting to go off? When one disaster follows another and Chase is to blame for someone’s death, will the team turn against her or stand with her in support, in spite of her prickly ways. When the top brass look at her under an unforgiving microscope, will Chase realize the error in her ways? Will she finally confront her past and learn valuable truths long held from her? Will she find something she has longed for? Will she learn there is no “I” in team and reach out for love and acceptance?
Strap in and hang on for the ride of your life! Breaking Sky by Cori McCarthy takes the insecurities and bravado of youth and launches it into the stratosphere. Built in a fast-paced and highly charged atmosphere, there is no moment of quiet to settle back, this is white-knuckle story-telling all of the way. Brilliant action scenes, heartbreaking moments of discovery, angst and anger, it’s all there, woven into a world of instability and an uncertain future. Shay often leaves her best side buried within her mind as we “hear” her torment and feel her sense of helplessness to overcome what bothers her. The intense loyalty these teens feel as a team is refreshing. The maturity displayed by Tristan, as an outsider is remarkable. Put it all together and Cori McCarthy has broken the “hit” barrier.
I received this ARC edition from Sourcebooks Fire in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: March 10, 2015
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
ISBN: 9781492601418
Genre: YA Sci-Fi
Print Length: 416 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Imagine, seeing another Streaker jet appear, only to discover that the Canadians also have an ace pilot, who might even be better than Chase. Tristan has the maturity that Chase lacks, he is secure in his own skin, more rational in his thought processes and for Chase, he might as well BE the enemy. If the fate of the world rests on their shoulders, they must learn to train as a team, fight as a team and have each others back, but is it possible? There is some chemistry, but is it sparks of emotion or a ticking time bomb waiting to go off? When one disaster follows another and Chase is to blame for someone’s death, will the team turn against her or stand with her in support, in spite of her prickly ways. When the top brass look at her under an unforgiving microscope, will Chase realize the error in her ways? Will she finally confront her past and learn valuable truths long held from her? Will she find something she has longed for? Will she learn there is no “I” in team and reach out for love and acceptance?
Strap in and hang on for the ride of your life! Breaking Sky by Cori McCarthy takes the insecurities and bravado of youth and launches it into the stratosphere. Built in a fast-paced and highly charged atmosphere, there is no moment of quiet to settle back, this is white-knuckle story-telling all of the way. Brilliant action scenes, heartbreaking moments of discovery, angst and anger, it’s all there, woven into a world of instability and an uncertain future. Shay often leaves her best side buried within her mind as we “hear” her torment and feel her sense of helplessness to overcome what bothers her. The intense loyalty these teens feel as a team is refreshing. The maturity displayed by Tristan, as an outsider is remarkable. Put it all together and Cori McCarthy has broken the “hit” barrier.
I received this ARC edition from Sourcebooks Fire in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: March 10, 2015
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
ISBN: 9781492601418
Genre: YA Sci-Fi
Print Length: 416 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
March 13, 2015
Breaking Sky grabs you from the very first few lines - and doesn't let go. Chase, call sign Nyx, is a cadet at the United Star Academy, an airforce base for teens as they prepare to join the US military in the Second Cold War. Chase is part of one of two teams who fly the Streakers, jets so powerful only young and strong teen pilots can fly them.
I didn't like Chase at first. She was bold, cocky, arrogant and reckless, but then you'd get these little glimpse of more hiding beneath the surface and of a backstory that explained the attitude. And as the story developed I began to love her courage, her fear and her determination. The Star is a military base and junior training academy, which results in the best mix of teen drama and military action. Chase and her RIO (and best friend) Pippin, and the other Streaker team are preparing for the trials that will showcase the Streaker jets' abilities and, if the trials succeed, will see the beginning of the Streakers' dominance in the fight between the once powerful US and the now-dominant New Eastern Bloc. It is up to Chase and her fellow cadets to prove both their own worth and that of the experimental jets - so it's really important not to mess up (or die). It's just unfortunate that Chase is so very good at pushing the boundaries and generally creating chaos!
There are tense moments and high-risk flying manoeuvres, romance, friendship and humour, and then, WHAM! Out of nowhere - I did not see that coming. It made it all real and so very powerful. Cori McCarthy expertly combines flying lingo and details, base politics and teen interactions, and creates a suspenseful and dramatic read. Highly enjoyed.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't like Chase at first. She was bold, cocky, arrogant and reckless, but then you'd get these little glimpse of more hiding beneath the surface and of a backstory that explained the attitude. And as the story developed I began to love her courage, her fear and her determination. The Star is a military base and junior training academy, which results in the best mix of teen drama and military action. Chase and her RIO (and best friend) Pippin, and the other Streaker team are preparing for the trials that will showcase the Streaker jets' abilities and, if the trials succeed, will see the beginning of the Streakers' dominance in the fight between the once powerful US and the now-dominant New Eastern Bloc. It is up to Chase and her fellow cadets to prove both their own worth and that of the experimental jets - so it's really important not to mess up (or die). It's just unfortunate that Chase is so very good at pushing the boundaries and generally creating chaos!
There are tense moments and high-risk flying manoeuvres, romance, friendship and humour, and then, WHAM! Out of nowhere - I did not see that coming. It made it all real and so very powerful. Cori McCarthy expertly combines flying lingo and details, base politics and teen interactions, and creates a suspenseful and dramatic read. Highly enjoyed.
The publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2015
Chase is a fighter pilot at the United Star Academy. Her call sign is Nyx. She is one of two pilots to fly the new Streaker jets. While out flying Chase comes in contact with another Streaker, only this one is a third one. Chase is curious to find out who the third pilot is. Chase does find out who the other pilot it. His name is Tristan call sign Arrow. He is a pilot for the Royal Canadian Junior Air Force Academy.
Right from the beginning this book started out with a big bang...literally. There was a crash and then the story back tracked to the beginning which was not borning at all either. I really got into this story. The author's experience of being a military brat and love for aviation was evident in the story. This helped to make it top notch. I was so glad to see a strong female lead as a fighter pilot. It is not often that the pilots in stories are portrayed as females. Chase had the attitude of Tom Cruise's character in Top Gun. Right away I liked her. The story was so believable that I could see it being real. As an avid aviation fan, I like these types of stories. This one was right up there as being a must read. With the real life like story line, intriguing, strong-willed characters like Chase and Tristan, action, excitement, and good ending. You won't want to miss this book. It did have a feeling of Top Gun but mixed with Ender Games for the futuristic style.
Right from the beginning this book started out with a big bang...literally. There was a crash and then the story back tracked to the beginning which was not borning at all either. I really got into this story. The author's experience of being a military brat and love for aviation was evident in the story. This helped to make it top notch. I was so glad to see a strong female lead as a fighter pilot. It is not often that the pilots in stories are portrayed as females. Chase had the attitude of Tom Cruise's character in Top Gun. Right away I liked her. The story was so believable that I could see it being real. As an avid aviation fan, I like these types of stories. This one was right up there as being a must read. With the real life like story line, intriguing, strong-willed characters like Chase and Tristan, action, excitement, and good ending. You won't want to miss this book. It did have a feeling of Top Gun but mixed with Ender Games for the futuristic style.
March 19, 2017
I'm giving it 3 but it's more like 2.5. Like, on the plus side it made me tear up and had a bisexual female main character. On the downside, it was kinda racist in the way it portrayed Asia (esp. East Asia); the MC was mostly selfish and her logic at times made me incredibly angry and want to tear out my hair because no, you're not supposed to do that; the portrayal of a bi girl as a sort of sexual deviant ticked me off; ughhhhhh; I appreciated the self-awareness at Pippin's death scene, but come on, u could see it coming and also it was still shitty!!!; i could go on.
The characters are forgettable, and I think the author just put so much thought into their call signs and real names that i would get confused at all the codenames and whatnot. Also, what happened to Pip's notebook???? What did it hold? Why was it so secret? I thought his last words were the combination for his locked drawer. Anyway it was disappointing at the end.
I rate it Ehh
The characters are forgettable, and I think the author just put so much thought into their call signs and real names that i would get confused at all the codenames and whatnot. Also, what happened to Pip's notebook???? What did it hold? Why was it so secret? I thought his last words were the combination for his locked drawer. Anyway it was disappointing at the end.
I rate it Ehh
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
dnf
February 7, 2016On paper this looked like a great book to read, but after trying to read this book over the weekend I have to put it down.
The story just feels meh, and Chase I could happily throw out of her own speeding jet.....or lock her in as it hurtles towards the earth. For me she had no redeeming qualities and I thought she was far too up herself to be likeable. She may be the fastest flyer, but she is also the fastest character to make me dislike her so much.
The story just feels meh, and Chase I could happily throw out of her own speeding jet.....or lock her in as it hurtles towards the earth. For me she had no redeeming qualities and I thought she was far too up herself to be likeable. She may be the fastest flyer, but she is also the fastest character to make me dislike her so much.
February 27, 2022
Loved reading this book, it was a fantastic sci fi, and I can't wait to read more by Cory McCarthy!
December 31, 2015
I liked this book a lot and read through it in only a few sittings. I'm kind of a sucker for a strong female lead in a dystopian setting, and this book delivered on that front. It was fast-paced and I felt that the characters were realistic and easy to relate to. If the author released a sequel, which the end of the book seems to hint at, I would read it--partially because I liked this book, and partially because I finished it with a ton of questions. That being said, there were a few flaws, in my opinion.
Firstly, it's very clear that the author was heavily inspired by the movie Top Gun. It's mentioned in her acknowledgements, the blurb contains the word "maverick" (not by chance, I'm sure), and the plot is somewhat similar to the movie--almost to a fault. I've seen other reviews that have said things like, "This is what it would be like if John Green rewrote Top Gun," and I somewhat agree. I'll get back to this point later.
I was skeptical about the concept that essentially this JROTC group of teenagers were entrusted to test out these state-of-the-art military jets and save the country from the Bad Guys, but I gave it the benefit of the doubt because, hey, it's a YA dystopian novel. Nobody really questioned that a government would throw children into an arena to kill each other in the Hunger Games, so I let this unlikelihood go.
As far as the characters go, while they were easy to relate to and empathize with, they followed a lot of predictable tropes.
Chase/Nyx: the rebel who hates everybody and still manages to be adored, get all the guys, and gets away with everything because her dad is an authority figure. And when I say "dad," I'm referring to both Brigadier General Kale and General Tourn because Kale definitely saved her skin on more than one occasion and was very paternal towards her, which might I say is very unrealistic of a military environment.
Henry/Pippin: the only boy who was never interested in Chase because, turns out, he's gay. While I was happy to see LGBTQ representation, I felt that it came a little too late in the game. I wish this fact had been introduced sooner, and maybe even a romantic sub-plot between Henry and Romeo, to help normalize the subject. I felt that it was left fairly raw. Chase and Henry fought, he "came out" (though it's mentioned that Chase knew all along, though this is never alluded to), they fight more, and we never get closure on this issue. I feel that this was something the author maybe threw in to make the book appeal to a wider audience or seem more relevant. I also wish that his backstory and family situation had been better explained. This is another thing that made me somewhat annoyed with Chase's character. Yes, she's the main character of the book, but the lack of backstory for the secondary characters made it really seem like the Nyx show.
Tristan/Arrow: the new shiny toy that sweeps the Star Academy by storm, takes all the attention off Chase, stirs up trouble, and puts the untamable bad girl in her place. He could have any girl he wants, but of course he chooses our protagonist. Once again, I was left grasping for a backstory. What events unfolded in his life that led him to being in the Canadian air force? I also felt that Tristan was entirely too unaffected by the JAFA bombing. It's mentioned that he lost a lot of his friends, and yes, he talks about this briefly (once, I believe), and he seems to zone out a few times, so this kid clearly has some sort of PTSD, but I feel like more could have been done with this to make his character more dynamic and not just badass eye candy. When something traumatic happens to Chase, she's grounded for weeks (though of course it doesn't last long because the rebellious and aptly-named "daughter of chaos" can do whatever she wants), but when his entire base is bombed, Tristan seems to be right back in a jet with no resistance, and barely any emotional hiccups. A panic attack is all I wanted from this character, not just freezing up in a hallway for a moment.
Leah Grenadine/Sylph: the beautiful Amazonian Barbie who also excels at everything she attempts. We get it, she's perfect and mean.
Romeo: French-accented ladies' man. As mentioned before, I so wanted a romance or even a flirtation between Henry and Romeo. From the moment Romeo punches Henry upon their first meeting, I salivated for it, but was left disappointed. I even thought that's what the author was leading up to when she mentioned how much time the two spent together, and their gossiping and inside-joking in French. When Chase eventually tells Romeo about Henry's affection toward him, he confirms that he's straight, and I felt that this was a missed opportunity to have a bi- or even pan-sexual character. And of course, it's mentioned at some point that he would bang Chase if given the chance.
Finally, and here come the biggest spoilers so far, the scene that I was the most conflicted about was Henry's death. It devastated me because the author does a great job of making you like this character. I am not a person who cries over books, and I cried over Henry's death. I was shocked, but at the same time, it made sense. Of course he had to die. It just made sense. I could argue that he died too soon, and that a lot of questions about his character and backstory could have been answered beforehand, but I was okay with the fact that there was no closure with his story line because nine times out of ten people don't get closure before death in the real world. It was realistic.
I do however wish that his dying words to Chase would have been more important. "Up...down." Chase does later realize that he helped her figure out how to defeat the drones with his dying words, but the realization was too quick and not touching enough to satisfy me. Maybe this was because I was so emotional over his death.
I realized shortly after reading Pippin's death that I should have seen it coming all along. After all, Pippin was Goose, and this was Top Gun. After this realization, I was more than a little annoyed.
Lastly, the biggest, most frustrating loose end to me was Henry's notebooks. Multiple times the author mentions Pippin scribbling in a notebook at his desk, snapping a notebook shut, storing a notebook in a drawer which, if memory serves, had a lock on it. When the Streaker teams hold conference in team Dragon's room, it's mentioned that he puts multiple notebooks in (if I recall) a dresser drawer. Maybe this was just a quirk to reinforce the fact that Henry was a genius and geniuses have a lot of thoughts which require written down, I guess. I wanted Chase to find the notebooks after he had died and maybe find something about a secret relationship with Romeo, or information on how to beat the drones, or both. Pippin still having her six even after he died, or whatever.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, contrary to what it may appear in this review. As I got toward the end and realized how few pages I had left, I began wondering how the author was going to tie up so many loose ends. Turns out, she didn't. I'm definitely hoping for a sequel to answer the multitude of questions the book left me with. However, if it turns out that this book was meant to be a standalone, my opinion on it will definitely change.
Firstly, it's very clear that the author was heavily inspired by the movie Top Gun. It's mentioned in her acknowledgements, the blurb contains the word "maverick" (not by chance, I'm sure), and the plot is somewhat similar to the movie--almost to a fault. I've seen other reviews that have said things like, "This is what it would be like if John Green rewrote Top Gun," and I somewhat agree. I'll get back to this point later.
I was skeptical about the concept that essentially this JROTC group of teenagers were entrusted to test out these state-of-the-art military jets and save the country from the Bad Guys, but I gave it the benefit of the doubt because, hey, it's a YA dystopian novel. Nobody really questioned that a government would throw children into an arena to kill each other in the Hunger Games, so I let this unlikelihood go.
As far as the characters go, while they were easy to relate to and empathize with, they followed a lot of predictable tropes.
Chase/Nyx: the rebel who hates everybody and still manages to be adored, get all the guys, and gets away with everything because her dad is an authority figure. And when I say "dad," I'm referring to both Brigadier General Kale and General Tourn because Kale definitely saved her skin on more than one occasion and was very paternal towards her, which might I say is very unrealistic of a military environment.
Henry/Pippin: the only boy who was never interested in Chase because, turns out, he's gay. While I was happy to see LGBTQ representation, I felt that it came a little too late in the game. I wish this fact had been introduced sooner, and maybe even a romantic sub-plot between Henry and Romeo, to help normalize the subject. I felt that it was left fairly raw. Chase and Henry fought, he "came out" (though it's mentioned that Chase knew all along, though this is never alluded to), they fight more, and we never get closure on this issue. I feel that this was something the author maybe threw in to make the book appeal to a wider audience or seem more relevant. I also wish that his backstory and family situation had been better explained. This is another thing that made me somewhat annoyed with Chase's character. Yes, she's the main character of the book, but the lack of backstory for the secondary characters made it really seem like the Nyx show.
Tristan/Arrow: the new shiny toy that sweeps the Star Academy by storm, takes all the attention off Chase, stirs up trouble, and puts the untamable bad girl in her place. He could have any girl he wants, but of course he chooses our protagonist. Once again, I was left grasping for a backstory. What events unfolded in his life that led him to being in the Canadian air force? I also felt that Tristan was entirely too unaffected by the JAFA bombing. It's mentioned that he lost a lot of his friends, and yes, he talks about this briefly (once, I believe), and he seems to zone out a few times, so this kid clearly has some sort of PTSD, but I feel like more could have been done with this to make his character more dynamic and not just badass eye candy. When something traumatic happens to Chase, she's grounded for weeks (though of course it doesn't last long because the rebellious and aptly-named "daughter of chaos" can do whatever she wants), but when his entire base is bombed, Tristan seems to be right back in a jet with no resistance, and barely any emotional hiccups. A panic attack is all I wanted from this character, not just freezing up in a hallway for a moment.
Leah Grenadine/Sylph: the beautiful Amazonian Barbie who also excels at everything she attempts. We get it, she's perfect and mean.
Romeo: French-accented ladies' man. As mentioned before, I so wanted a romance or even a flirtation between Henry and Romeo. From the moment Romeo punches Henry upon their first meeting, I salivated for it, but was left disappointed. I even thought that's what the author was leading up to when she mentioned how much time the two spent together, and their gossiping and inside-joking in French. When Chase eventually tells Romeo about Henry's affection toward him, he confirms that he's straight, and I felt that this was a missed opportunity to have a bi- or even pan-sexual character. And of course, it's mentioned at some point that he would bang Chase if given the chance.
Finally, and here come the biggest spoilers so far, the scene that I was the most conflicted about was Henry's death. It devastated me because the author does a great job of making you like this character. I am not a person who cries over books, and I cried over Henry's death. I was shocked, but at the same time, it made sense. Of course he had to die. It just made sense. I could argue that he died too soon, and that a lot of questions about his character and backstory could have been answered beforehand, but I was okay with the fact that there was no closure with his story line because nine times out of ten people don't get closure before death in the real world. It was realistic.
I do however wish that his dying words to Chase would have been more important. "Up...down." Chase does later realize that he helped her figure out how to defeat the drones with his dying words, but the realization was too quick and not touching enough to satisfy me. Maybe this was because I was so emotional over his death.
I realized shortly after reading Pippin's death that I should have seen it coming all along. After all, Pippin was Goose, and this was Top Gun. After this realization, I was more than a little annoyed.
Lastly, the biggest, most frustrating loose end to me was Henry's notebooks. Multiple times the author mentions Pippin scribbling in a notebook at his desk, snapping a notebook shut, storing a notebook in a drawer which, if memory serves, had a lock on it. When the Streaker teams hold conference in team Dragon's room, it's mentioned that he puts multiple notebooks in (if I recall) a dresser drawer. Maybe this was just a quirk to reinforce the fact that Henry was a genius and geniuses have a lot of thoughts which require written down, I guess. I wanted Chase to find the notebooks after he had died and maybe find something about a secret relationship with Romeo, or information on how to beat the drones, or both. Pippin still having her six even after he died, or whatever.
Overall, I did enjoy the book, contrary to what it may appear in this review. As I got toward the end and realized how few pages I had left, I began wondering how the author was going to tie up so many loose ends. Turns out, she didn't. I'm definitely hoping for a sequel to answer the multitude of questions the book left me with. However, if it turns out that this book was meant to be a standalone, my opinion on it will definitely change.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
In this high-flying, adrenaline-fueled debut thriller, America's best hope is the elite teen fighter pilots of the United Star Academy Chase Harcourt, call sign "Nyx," is one of only two pilots chosen to fly the experimental "Streaker" jets at the junior Air Force Academy in the year 2048. She's tough and impulsive with lightning-fast reactions, but few know the pain and loneliness of her past or the dark secret about her father. All anyone cares about is that Chase aces the upcoming Streaker trials, proving the prototype jet can knock the enemy out of the sky. But as the world tilts toward war, Chase cracks open a military secret. There's a third Streaker jet, whose young hotshot pilot, Tristan, can match her on the ground and in the clouds. Chase doesn't play well with others, but to save her country she may just have to put her life in the hands of the competition.
What a terrific book. This felt like a dystopian version of Top Gun, mixed with the YA element of Matthew Reilly's 'Hover Car Racer." It raced along at break-neck pace, never really letting up along the way.
Even better than that, though, was the lead character, Chase Harcourt - call-sign "Nyx" - what a splendid character to lead us through the world created here and the trials and tribulations of her life. She is feisty, strong-willed and exceptionally brilliant at her job. She is an ace at her job but not so much in her personal life...but that's a story all of its own...
The supporting cast are fine but, to tell the truth, they were pretty much in the background for me as Chase was certainly the star of this book. The romance between Tristan and Chase was nicely done, not overly sweet and gave us another look at Chase and her motivations.
The one thing I would have liked was a more in-depth history/backstory for the rivalry with Ri Xiong Di - there were times when the suspense didn't really work as we never really got a sense of the threat...was a little weak in that regard.
Overall, a highly recommended action/thriller novel for the YA genre.
Paul
ARH
In this high-flying, adrenaline-fueled debut thriller, America's best hope is the elite teen fighter pilots of the United Star Academy Chase Harcourt, call sign "Nyx," is one of only two pilots chosen to fly the experimental "Streaker" jets at the junior Air Force Academy in the year 2048. She's tough and impulsive with lightning-fast reactions, but few know the pain and loneliness of her past or the dark secret about her father. All anyone cares about is that Chase aces the upcoming Streaker trials, proving the prototype jet can knock the enemy out of the sky. But as the world tilts toward war, Chase cracks open a military secret. There's a third Streaker jet, whose young hotshot pilot, Tristan, can match her on the ground and in the clouds. Chase doesn't play well with others, but to save her country she may just have to put her life in the hands of the competition.
What a terrific book. This felt like a dystopian version of Top Gun, mixed with the YA element of Matthew Reilly's 'Hover Car Racer." It raced along at break-neck pace, never really letting up along the way.
Even better than that, though, was the lead character, Chase Harcourt - call-sign "Nyx" - what a splendid character to lead us through the world created here and the trials and tribulations of her life. She is feisty, strong-willed and exceptionally brilliant at her job. She is an ace at her job but not so much in her personal life...but that's a story all of its own...
The supporting cast are fine but, to tell the truth, they were pretty much in the background for me as Chase was certainly the star of this book. The romance between Tristan and Chase was nicely done, not overly sweet and gave us another look at Chase and her motivations.
The one thing I would have liked was a more in-depth history/backstory for the rivalry with Ri Xiong Di - there were times when the suspense didn't really work as we never really got a sense of the threat...was a little weak in that regard.
Overall, a highly recommended action/thriller novel for the YA genre.
Paul
ARH
March 19, 2019
I had such high hopes for this book. The premise, the characters - all fascinating. Dystopian America trying to develop fighter jets flown by teenagers to fight against a power controlling the rest of the world. So US-centric and unlikely but still a fun premise for a story. The flying scenes were great, exhilarating even. McCarthy is adept at making me feel for the characters. But, the romantic subplot was very cringey, and all the romantic scenes in general felt like they were written by a child (I get that this is a book about teens but still). I wish the Canadian team hadn't become the focus of the story, because the relationships between Chase and Pippin and Sylph and all her exes had so much story and potential within themselves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2015
Bookworm Speaks!
Breaking Sky
by Cori McCarthy
****
The Story: Fly to the last drop of fuel. Fight to the last drop of blood.
Showoff. Reckless. Maverick. Chase Harcourt, call sign "Nyx", isn't one to play it safe. In the year 2048, America is locked in a cold war – and the country's best hope is the elite teen fighter pilots of the United Star Academy. Chase is one of only two daredevil pilots chosen to fly an experimental "Streaker" jet. But few know the pain and loneliness of her past. All anyone cares about is that Chase aces the upcoming Streaker trials, proving the prototype jet can knock the enemy out of the sky.
But as the world tilts toward war, Chase cracks open a military secret. There's a third Streaker, whose young hotshot pilot, Tristan, can match her on the ground and in the clouds. And Chase doesn't play well with others. But to save her country, she may just have to put her life in the hands of the competition.
Note: Many comparisons have been made between this book and the film ‘Top Gun.’ Bookworm has never seen this movie, so he will be unable to compare the two and any references made in the text went right over his head.
That said…how does the book hold up?
Fighter planes.
Seriously? Could anything be cooler? Bookworm prefers prop-driven combat aircraft these days, but like every other American boy, he had a collection of fighter plane toys that he loved to death, and this is a story about fighter planes and the elite pilots who fly them. Any fan of such things will really enjoy this book. Even though it has its share of flaws.
Nyx is very hard to warm up to as a character. She’s arrogant, stand-offish, and just seems to use people. To be completely honest, that nearly killed the book for Bookworm. The key to writing any protagonist is to make them sympathetic to reader. The reader wants to root for them and it was very hard to root for Nyx. She too much of a hard-ass and too little of a badass. Thankfully, Bookworm’s commitment to finish every book he starts paid off and we start to peel back the layers of Nyx and see why she became what she is today. Not everyone share’s Bookworm’s resolution and therefore may put the book down in the face of such and abrasive character.
Adding to the flawed character is once more the introduction of romantic subplot between Nyx and Tristan. Bookworm can’t remember a thing about this arc which lends even more credence to the view that it was a completely unnecessary arc. This book suffers from a few too many subplots and the story as whole could have used one more editing session at least.
Once the reader warms up to them though, the book really becomes a thrill-ride. The action scenes are wonderful and fast-paced. Action scenes can be very difficult to write normally and modern combat is not as exciting as popular media but in this book the author pulls it off excellently. The military is such a dynamic environment that it is not a small wonder that so many stories take place around the military.
While Bookworm tends to avoid such matters, it is interesting the way that the author analyzes American political and economic standings and creates an interesting hypothesis on how it could all fall apart. In this future, the world is once again engulfed in a Cold War. This time it is between the United States and an Asian faction called Ri Xoing Di. One of the first things Ri Xoing Di did was cut off imports to the United States and thusly plunging the country into social and economic turmoil. In a lot of ways, the U.S. in this book is like the old British Empire. It was the most powerful nation in the world but a lot of its wealth and resources came from overseas. Bookworm has no intention of getting into a political rant right now but he will say that the dystopian overtures made in this book are a lot more plausible than other books.
However, this leads into what Bookworm found to be the most frustrating about this book: the lack of context. The world building has an interesting premise but all it really seems to have is the premise, it never gets into the nitty gritty. It is implied that Ri Xoing Di is the warlord that conquered China and other Asian countries, but it is never made clear whether its a person or the name of the faction warring against the United States or why they are doing it in the first place. It makes the whole book feel incomplete, or the extremely likely scenario that it is being left for a sequel. This is a habit that modern writers need to get out of as every book should be able to stand on its own. Have we learned nothing from J.K. Rowling?
But perhaps that works in the book’s favor…sometimes the writer’s get lost in their own canons and it can confuse the readers as well. Perhaps the story did not really need a fully realized villain. By fully realized, Ri Xoing Di is more like Sauron from Lord of Rings, more of a force than an true character. The red drones are the instruments of its will but we never see the true face of the master. This can create more drama on the part of the protagonist as we really get to know them as they overcome this challenge.
Final Verdict: Breaking Sky is a fun, action movie style of book but not much else. Good for what it offered.
Three out of Five Stars
****
thecultureworm.blogspot.com
Breaking Sky
by Cori McCarthy
****
The Story: Fly to the last drop of fuel. Fight to the last drop of blood.
Showoff. Reckless. Maverick. Chase Harcourt, call sign "Nyx", isn't one to play it safe. In the year 2048, America is locked in a cold war – and the country's best hope is the elite teen fighter pilots of the United Star Academy. Chase is one of only two daredevil pilots chosen to fly an experimental "Streaker" jet. But few know the pain and loneliness of her past. All anyone cares about is that Chase aces the upcoming Streaker trials, proving the prototype jet can knock the enemy out of the sky.
But as the world tilts toward war, Chase cracks open a military secret. There's a third Streaker, whose young hotshot pilot, Tristan, can match her on the ground and in the clouds. And Chase doesn't play well with others. But to save her country, she may just have to put her life in the hands of the competition.
Note: Many comparisons have been made between this book and the film ‘Top Gun.’ Bookworm has never seen this movie, so he will be unable to compare the two and any references made in the text went right over his head.
That said…how does the book hold up?
Fighter planes.
Seriously? Could anything be cooler? Bookworm prefers prop-driven combat aircraft these days, but like every other American boy, he had a collection of fighter plane toys that he loved to death, and this is a story about fighter planes and the elite pilots who fly them. Any fan of such things will really enjoy this book. Even though it has its share of flaws.
Nyx is very hard to warm up to as a character. She’s arrogant, stand-offish, and just seems to use people. To be completely honest, that nearly killed the book for Bookworm. The key to writing any protagonist is to make them sympathetic to reader. The reader wants to root for them and it was very hard to root for Nyx. She too much of a hard-ass and too little of a badass. Thankfully, Bookworm’s commitment to finish every book he starts paid off and we start to peel back the layers of Nyx and see why she became what she is today. Not everyone share’s Bookworm’s resolution and therefore may put the book down in the face of such and abrasive character.
Adding to the flawed character is once more the introduction of romantic subplot between Nyx and Tristan. Bookworm can’t remember a thing about this arc which lends even more credence to the view that it was a completely unnecessary arc. This book suffers from a few too many subplots and the story as whole could have used one more editing session at least.
Once the reader warms up to them though, the book really becomes a thrill-ride. The action scenes are wonderful and fast-paced. Action scenes can be very difficult to write normally and modern combat is not as exciting as popular media but in this book the author pulls it off excellently. The military is such a dynamic environment that it is not a small wonder that so many stories take place around the military.
While Bookworm tends to avoid such matters, it is interesting the way that the author analyzes American political and economic standings and creates an interesting hypothesis on how it could all fall apart. In this future, the world is once again engulfed in a Cold War. This time it is between the United States and an Asian faction called Ri Xoing Di. One of the first things Ri Xoing Di did was cut off imports to the United States and thusly plunging the country into social and economic turmoil. In a lot of ways, the U.S. in this book is like the old British Empire. It was the most powerful nation in the world but a lot of its wealth and resources came from overseas. Bookworm has no intention of getting into a political rant right now but he will say that the dystopian overtures made in this book are a lot more plausible than other books.
However, this leads into what Bookworm found to be the most frustrating about this book: the lack of context. The world building has an interesting premise but all it really seems to have is the premise, it never gets into the nitty gritty. It is implied that Ri Xoing Di is the warlord that conquered China and other Asian countries, but it is never made clear whether its a person or the name of the faction warring against the United States or why they are doing it in the first place. It makes the whole book feel incomplete, or the extremely likely scenario that it is being left for a sequel. This is a habit that modern writers need to get out of as every book should be able to stand on its own. Have we learned nothing from J.K. Rowling?
But perhaps that works in the book’s favor…sometimes the writer’s get lost in their own canons and it can confuse the readers as well. Perhaps the story did not really need a fully realized villain. By fully realized, Ri Xoing Di is more like Sauron from Lord of Rings, more of a force than an true character. The red drones are the instruments of its will but we never see the true face of the master. This can create more drama on the part of the protagonist as we really get to know them as they overcome this challenge.
Final Verdict: Breaking Sky is a fun, action movie style of book but not much else. Good for what it offered.
Three out of Five Stars
****
thecultureworm.blogspot.com
April 16, 2015
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: A strong but lonely and flawed female protagonist striving to prove herself amongst the other teenagers in the air-force. Great characters but not so great storyline.
Opening Sentence: Speed turned her on.
The Review:
I haven’t read many books set in the Air Force, especially not one where the cadets are teenagers training for a war. I’ve seen a lot of great reviews about this book, I’ve even heard that it is being considered for a TV/film but I didn’t think it was all that great. It’s an unusual story and I guess as a movie it would be cool to watch in terms of racing streaker jets mixed in with teen romance, but in all honesty, there are so many other fantastic books out three that Breaking Sky wouldn’t be my first choice at a movie adaptation.
Although Breaking Sky is categorized as YA I thought there was some mature content and sexual innuendos suitable for older teens. Especially when it comes to Chase’s (aka Nyx) romantic conquests.
She could only imagine what Tanner would say. Actually, she could imagine exactly what he would say. “I’m the heartbreaker, is that what you’re hearing?”
“I believe Tanner Won used the term ‘Love Vampire.’”
“Jesus Christ.”
Nyx is suitably named after the daughter of chaos. Her short term relationships result in broken hearts everywhere and although she does feel bad afterwards, she prefers to keep everyone, including her best friend and co-pilot Pippin at arm’s length. But things change when Arrow arrives, and Chase is forced to deal with her deepest and darkest fears.
Considering the depressing topic of an impending war I was glad for the diverse characters, my favourites being Pippin, arch rival Sylph and of course the infamous Nyx. Initially, Arrow was fun to read about, particularly when we didn’t know much about him, just that he was the pilot of the Phoenix, and the only other teenage pilot who was faster than Nyx. However, when he became more of a main character, I wasn’t too impressed at his almost perfect character, sociable smart and charming. Without a doubt Nyx’s volatile personality outshined his.
“Why do you always use my whole name? It isn’t natural. You don’t see me yelling out, ‘Hey, Eugenia Ritz Crackers’ every five seconds.”
“I’ve asked you repeatedly not to call me ‘Crackers.’”
“Forces of habit.” Chase popped her knuckles while Ritz adjusted her glasses.
A good, old-fashioned standoff.
Dystopian books tend to be too fantastical to be believed, but Breaking Sky hits on a topic that probably isn’t too far from a possible future. There are and always have been wars between powerful countries, and to think that we could be at war again is scary but, unfortunately, could be true. The topics are relevant and it was interesting to see how young adults were dealing within such a tense environment and under enormous pressures.
There was a lot of flight-related language and pilot situations that I couldn’t quite grasp. Even though there was a lot of action and eventful scenes, the linkage between events wasn’t great and often bored me.
Overall, an action packed read, an ending that hints at a series but not one I’m likely to invest in.
Notable Scene:
“According to you, moving on from people is my forte.”
They picked their way through the mud before Pippin spoke.
“True. But, Chase, you don’t even care about them in the first place.” His word burned while his shoulder bumped hers in a forced friendly way.
She wanted to point out that he was wrong. She cared. She cared about everything so much that she often felt exposed. Falling. Grasping at the sky. That’s why she needed the speed. It made the very air something that she could hold on to.
FTC Advisory: Sourcebooks Fire provided me with a copy of Breaking Sky. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A strong but lonely and flawed female protagonist striving to prove herself amongst the other teenagers in the air-force. Great characters but not so great storyline.
Opening Sentence: Speed turned her on.
The Review:
I haven’t read many books set in the Air Force, especially not one where the cadets are teenagers training for a war. I’ve seen a lot of great reviews about this book, I’ve even heard that it is being considered for a TV/film but I didn’t think it was all that great. It’s an unusual story and I guess as a movie it would be cool to watch in terms of racing streaker jets mixed in with teen romance, but in all honesty, there are so many other fantastic books out three that Breaking Sky wouldn’t be my first choice at a movie adaptation.
Although Breaking Sky is categorized as YA I thought there was some mature content and sexual innuendos suitable for older teens. Especially when it comes to Chase’s (aka Nyx) romantic conquests.
She could only imagine what Tanner would say. Actually, she could imagine exactly what he would say. “I’m the heartbreaker, is that what you’re hearing?”
“I believe Tanner Won used the term ‘Love Vampire.’”
“Jesus Christ.”
Nyx is suitably named after the daughter of chaos. Her short term relationships result in broken hearts everywhere and although she does feel bad afterwards, she prefers to keep everyone, including her best friend and co-pilot Pippin at arm’s length. But things change when Arrow arrives, and Chase is forced to deal with her deepest and darkest fears.
Considering the depressing topic of an impending war I was glad for the diverse characters, my favourites being Pippin, arch rival Sylph and of course the infamous Nyx. Initially, Arrow was fun to read about, particularly when we didn’t know much about him, just that he was the pilot of the Phoenix, and the only other teenage pilot who was faster than Nyx. However, when he became more of a main character, I wasn’t too impressed at his almost perfect character, sociable smart and charming. Without a doubt Nyx’s volatile personality outshined his.
“Why do you always use my whole name? It isn’t natural. You don’t see me yelling out, ‘Hey, Eugenia Ritz Crackers’ every five seconds.”
“I’ve asked you repeatedly not to call me ‘Crackers.’”
“Forces of habit.” Chase popped her knuckles while Ritz adjusted her glasses.
A good, old-fashioned standoff.
Dystopian books tend to be too fantastical to be believed, but Breaking Sky hits on a topic that probably isn’t too far from a possible future. There are and always have been wars between powerful countries, and to think that we could be at war again is scary but, unfortunately, could be true. The topics are relevant and it was interesting to see how young adults were dealing within such a tense environment and under enormous pressures.
There was a lot of flight-related language and pilot situations that I couldn’t quite grasp. Even though there was a lot of action and eventful scenes, the linkage between events wasn’t great and often bored me.
Overall, an action packed read, an ending that hints at a series but not one I’m likely to invest in.
Notable Scene:
“According to you, moving on from people is my forte.”
They picked their way through the mud before Pippin spoke.
“True. But, Chase, you don’t even care about them in the first place.” His word burned while his shoulder bumped hers in a forced friendly way.
She wanted to point out that he was wrong. She cared. She cared about everything so much that she often felt exposed. Falling. Grasping at the sky. That’s why she needed the speed. It made the very air something that she could hold on to.
FTC Advisory: Sourcebooks Fire provided me with a copy of Breaking Sky. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
May 29, 2015
Cori McCarthy in her book, Breaking Sky, tells the story of a young air force pilot named Chase. The story is set in the near future where America is in the middle of another cold war with the Ri Xiong Di Dynasty in China. America's hope lies with The United Star Academy and a group of elite teen pilots flying experimental jets called Streakers. The Streaker Program was an answer to combat the Ri Xiong Di's Red Drones. One day while test flying one of the most advanced planes in the world, Chase and her partner, Pippin, came into contact with another Streaker. This new Streaker was part of a Canadian program. Chase followed the Canadian Streaker back to the Canadian hangar and landed. The U.S. had signed a treaty of no assistance with Ri Xiong Di Dynasty stating that any U.S. plane landing on foreign soil would be taken as an act of aggression. The Ri Xiong Di Dynasty could declare war. Chase lost her privilege to fly after she landed. The cold war began to heat up.
One theme that the author shows throughout the book is trust and loyalty. All pilots have a duty to the United Star Academy and their country. At the beginning of the story Chase must swear into secrecy about the Streaker Program. Readers understand the seriousness that the leaders have when it comes to respect, trust and loyalty. The author captivates readers during flight scenes. Cori McCarthy vividly describes Chase’s emotions and actions as she breaks the sound barrier. Chase loves the isolation, vastness and sense of freedom of the open sky. The author describes how Chase steps into her Streaker and takes off as a metaphor for freedom. However, some other aspects of the story were less appealing. The characters could have been developed better. Chase is described as impulsive, reckless and very independent. These characteristics make it hard to believe that the U.S. Government would allow Chase to fly the most advanced plane ever built. Another confusing part about the story is the character’s call signs. The United Star Academy has given all cadets call signs instead of using their real names. This made it confusing because characters were identified with both call signs and real names in the story. The author should have used one name instead of switching back and forth between call signs and real names.
Cori McCarthy wrote Breaking Sky to create a fast paced thriller. The themes trust, respect, and loyalty were evident throughout the book and the description of flight was vivid and gave the reader the sense of freedom. I recommend this book to anyone who likes action and adventure. I rate this book with a 4 out of 5 because of the confusing names and iffy character development. Breaking Sky rivals other books in its genre, such as Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, but does not surpass them.
April 4, 2015
I loved Breaking Sky! I’ve read very few books about pilots, and never anything about a female pilot set in the future. I hadn’t heard much about this book before I requested it so I didn’t have super high expectations, but Breaking Sky just blew me away. I definitely recommend it.
This book centres around Chase, a young hotshot pilot for America during the Second Cold War. It is set in 2048, which isn’t too far in the future at all. Despite how different the world seems at first (teen pilots, advanced technology, the second cold war, etc), the changes were written about in a way that was believable. A Chinese group called Ri Xiong Di has taken over much of the world through bombing and the use of their red fighter planes. America is developing a group of jets called Streakers, and Chase is one of the test pilots. It’s a very cool concept, and was executed very well!
Chase herself was a stellar character. She’s smart, reckless and a bit arrogant. She’s not the type of person that I’d probably end up being best friends with, but I really admire her determination. Besides Chase, the other characters were pretty amazing as well! Pippin, her best friend and RIO (like a co-pilot), was hilarious. Their conversations were very funny; the banter was great! I loved how Chase’s relationship with Sylph, one of the other Streaker pilots, grew and they became friendlier with each other.
I can’t possibly talk about the characters without mentioning the romance. Chase’s relationship with Tristan (the 3rd Streaker pilot) took a while to develop, but was very sweet. It wasn’t necessarily my favourite part of the book, but I still enjoyed it!
Breaking Sky is incredibly fast paced, and there is a lot of action! The author’s descriptions of flying in the Streaker planes was (pun completely intended) breathtaking. You really feel like you’re up there in the sky with Chase. The author definitely did her research when it comes to the technicalities of flying and planes. The United Star Academy felt very real.
A stellar premise, great characters, lot of action–what could be better? I read Breaking Sky in less than 24 hours, and I completely adored it. I’m not sure if there is going to be a sequel, but there are definitely enough loose strings to merit another instalment. 5 Stars!
This book centres around Chase, a young hotshot pilot for America during the Second Cold War. It is set in 2048, which isn’t too far in the future at all. Despite how different the world seems at first (teen pilots, advanced technology, the second cold war, etc), the changes were written about in a way that was believable. A Chinese group called Ri Xiong Di has taken over much of the world through bombing and the use of their red fighter planes. America is developing a group of jets called Streakers, and Chase is one of the test pilots. It’s a very cool concept, and was executed very well!
Chase herself was a stellar character. She’s smart, reckless and a bit arrogant. She’s not the type of person that I’d probably end up being best friends with, but I really admire her determination. Besides Chase, the other characters were pretty amazing as well! Pippin, her best friend and RIO (like a co-pilot), was hilarious. Their conversations were very funny; the banter was great! I loved how Chase’s relationship with Sylph, one of the other Streaker pilots, grew and they became friendlier with each other.
I can’t possibly talk about the characters without mentioning the romance. Chase’s relationship with Tristan (the 3rd Streaker pilot) took a while to develop, but was very sweet. It wasn’t necessarily my favourite part of the book, but I still enjoyed it!
Breaking Sky is incredibly fast paced, and there is a lot of action! The author’s descriptions of flying in the Streaker planes was (pun completely intended) breathtaking. You really feel like you’re up there in the sky with Chase. The author definitely did her research when it comes to the technicalities of flying and planes. The United Star Academy felt very real.
A stellar premise, great characters, lot of action–what could be better? I read Breaking Sky in less than 24 hours, and I completely adored it. I’m not sure if there is going to be a sequel, but there are definitely enough loose strings to merit another instalment. 5 Stars!
April 8, 2016
My original Breaking Sky audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
It is the near future, and the United States has been isolated by a technologically superior Asia. Their superior killer drones have forced the US to leave the rest of the world alone, no alliances, no trade, no communication. Breaking this rule will result in devastating attacks and punishment. Consequently, the US has lost all of its world influence and has slipped into a long and slow economic decline.
Chase Harcourt is one of two pilots in a small and elite secret project to develop a jet capable of outmaneuvering the drones. One of its limitations is that only the most physically fit youths can operate it. The g-forces would injure or kill an adult. If the project is successful, the US hopes to build enough of these jets and train enough young pilots to operate them. The problem is, how do they test them against a drone without revealing their secret and getting attacked in the process.
Breaking Sky is a teen romance novel wrapped in a pretty implausible plot. This should not be a deterrent for the right audience, however. The listener is inside Chase’s hormone addled brain for the whole ride and much of it is pretty entertaining. She loves flying and flirting. She also makes teenage mistakes, because she is a teenager being asked to take on adult risks and responsibilities.
The science and physics of the story shouldn’t be held against the story or the author. They are treated only as backdrop or furniture. If you go into the novel with this understanding, you will not be asking those pesky questions about science or why the US can’t simply make its own drones. But where’s the fun in that?
The story is read by Caitlin Davies, who does a good job, mostly staying out of the listener’s way. Her voices are clearly differentiated and her tone is appropriate for the characters. She sounds like Chase to the listener.
This is a young adult science fiction novel that doesn’t quite cross over to science fiction for adults. But, for the intended audience, (teens, especially girls) it should be quite entertaining and well worth a listen.
Audiobook was provided for review by the publisher.
It is the near future, and the United States has been isolated by a technologically superior Asia. Their superior killer drones have forced the US to leave the rest of the world alone, no alliances, no trade, no communication. Breaking this rule will result in devastating attacks and punishment. Consequently, the US has lost all of its world influence and has slipped into a long and slow economic decline.
Chase Harcourt is one of two pilots in a small and elite secret project to develop a jet capable of outmaneuvering the drones. One of its limitations is that only the most physically fit youths can operate it. The g-forces would injure or kill an adult. If the project is successful, the US hopes to build enough of these jets and train enough young pilots to operate them. The problem is, how do they test them against a drone without revealing their secret and getting attacked in the process.
Breaking Sky is a teen romance novel wrapped in a pretty implausible plot. This should not be a deterrent for the right audience, however. The listener is inside Chase’s hormone addled brain for the whole ride and much of it is pretty entertaining. She loves flying and flirting. She also makes teenage mistakes, because she is a teenager being asked to take on adult risks and responsibilities.
The science and physics of the story shouldn’t be held against the story or the author. They are treated only as backdrop or furniture. If you go into the novel with this understanding, you will not be asking those pesky questions about science or why the US can’t simply make its own drones. But where’s the fun in that?
The story is read by Caitlin Davies, who does a good job, mostly staying out of the listener’s way. Her voices are clearly differentiated and her tone is appropriate for the characters. She sounds like Chase to the listener.
This is a young adult science fiction novel that doesn’t quite cross over to science fiction for adults. But, for the intended audience, (teens, especially girls) it should be quite entertaining and well worth a listen.
Audiobook was provided for review by the publisher.
August 21, 2016
My thanks to Sourcebooks Fire via Netgalley for the free review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
To be honest, I was not expecting much from this book. The synopsis made me think that "Breaking Sky" might come off a bit silly, so in that regard, I admit I was pleasantly surprised. I still feel that no matter how hard or demanding the training might be, there's no way teenagers would make competent fighter pilots. I mean, adult fighter pilots must put in thousands of hours to get as good as they are, so even if we're talking about the most mature, genius teenagers in the country, they're still not going to have the experience behind them to fly and fight like an adult. But, if you can suspend your disbelief long enough to get past this issue, then you might really enjoy this book.
I was also expecting "Breaking Sky" to be all "rah rah USA", which I'm quite pleased to say that it was not! As a Canadian reader, I was surprised and excited to see that Canada (and two Canadians!) played a fairly significant role in this story, but that's all I'm going to say on that for fear of giving too much away.
I think there are definitely areas that could use improvement. Most of the characters were developed quite well - I especially enjoyed Pippin and Sylph - but I felt I didn't get to know a whole lot about Tristan. I also wanted to know more about why Chase hated her father so much. We're given a bit of backstory, but I don't think it was fleshed out enough to really make me understand the depth of Chase's feelings.
Overall, though, I enjoyed this book and the writer's style. If you're looking for a fast-paced, young adult read with a kick ass heroine in an alternate future, "Breaking Sky" could be exactly what you're looking for.
To be honest, I was not expecting much from this book. The synopsis made me think that "Breaking Sky" might come off a bit silly, so in that regard, I admit I was pleasantly surprised. I still feel that no matter how hard or demanding the training might be, there's no way teenagers would make competent fighter pilots. I mean, adult fighter pilots must put in thousands of hours to get as good as they are, so even if we're talking about the most mature, genius teenagers in the country, they're still not going to have the experience behind them to fly and fight like an adult. But, if you can suspend your disbelief long enough to get past this issue, then you might really enjoy this book.
I was also expecting "Breaking Sky" to be all "rah rah USA", which I'm quite pleased to say that it was not! As a Canadian reader, I was surprised and excited to see that Canada (and two Canadians!) played a fairly significant role in this story, but that's all I'm going to say on that for fear of giving too much away.
I think there are definitely areas that could use improvement. Most of the characters were developed quite well - I especially enjoyed Pippin and Sylph - but I felt I didn't get to know a whole lot about Tristan. I also wanted to know more about why Chase hated her father so much. We're given a bit of backstory, but I don't think it was fleshed out enough to really make me understand the depth of Chase's feelings.
Overall, though, I enjoyed this book and the writer's style. If you're looking for a fast-paced, young adult read with a kick ass heroine in an alternate future, "Breaking Sky" could be exactly what you're looking for.
May 30, 2015
I couldn't do it, I just couldn't! I made it to page 114, said I'd take a break and then come back to it, and then my hands refused to pick it up again.
When I first heard of the concept, it was great! Fighter planes, saving the world, dystopian military futures, a strong female pilot cadet... But then came the writing style, which just couldn't grab my attention. That, combined with rather technical aviation jargon, made it hard to get into. So I'm sure if someone with aviation background read it, it would make more sense.
Having said that, I did like the scenes where Chase was up in the air. That was gorgeous and I could almost envision them blurring through the sky, changing the very shape of the future just by existing.
But as I read on, I was confused about the historical setup and how teen pilots in a fancy plane would defeat a swarm of drones and why exactly they'd entrust said fancy plane to Chase. And how did this present come to happen? And can you really blanket the entirety of Asia and make it evil (or, at least, the antagonist, as we are from Chase's POV)? It's a rather large region. I'd have liked more context and some diversity in the protagonists. A Chinese American Chase? The only Asian American (that I saw as far as I got) was rather two dimensional.
Anyways, I couldn't finish this. It might've become an amazing, thrill of a ride book in the last 3/4s, but meh. Might try another book of this author, though, to see what changes!
When I first heard of the concept, it was great! Fighter planes, saving the world, dystopian military futures, a strong female pilot cadet... But then came the writing style, which just couldn't grab my attention. That, combined with rather technical aviation jargon, made it hard to get into. So I'm sure if someone with aviation background read it, it would make more sense.
Having said that, I did like the scenes where Chase was up in the air. That was gorgeous and I could almost envision them blurring through the sky, changing the very shape of the future just by existing.
But as I read on, I was confused about the historical setup and how teen pilots in a fancy plane would defeat a swarm of drones and why exactly they'd entrust said fancy plane to Chase. And how did this present come to happen? And can you really blanket the entirety of Asia and make it evil (or, at least, the antagonist, as we are from Chase's POV)? It's a rather large region. I'd have liked more context and some diversity in the protagonists. A Chinese American Chase? The only Asian American (that I saw as far as I got) was rather two dimensional.
Anyways, I couldn't finish this. It might've become an amazing, thrill of a ride book in the last 3/4s, but meh. Might try another book of this author, though, to see what changes!
March 16, 2015
The blurb for BREAKING SKY immediately drew me in. The characters and the setting kept me reading. The final chapter had me wishing for me.
Chase aka Nyx is a teen fighter pilot in the United Star Academy and is one of the two lucky pilots chosen to fly a streaker. Nyx is head strong, impulsive, she takes risks left and right and she happens to be a really good pilot. She has a really hard time making friends and has a bit of a heart-breaker reputation at the academy. Her co-pilot, and best friend, Pippin is the perfect match for her. He helps keep her in check and is really good at what he does making what Nyx does possible.
The romance was something I was expecting, but I really enjoyed the way it played out. Tristan is just as good as Chase and I enjoyed reading about them flying together. We see a different side of Chase when she's with Tristan and he definitely makes her a better person and friend.
There is a ton of suspense in BREAKING SKY. The danger felt read and the action scenes had my heart pumping. McCarthy does a great job explaining everything from the world that the story takes place in to flying the jet, I felt like I was right there in the cockpit. I have no idea if BREAKING SKY will be part of a series, but I really enjoyed it and would love to read more about Nyx and her world.
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Chase aka Nyx is a teen fighter pilot in the United Star Academy and is one of the two lucky pilots chosen to fly a streaker. Nyx is head strong, impulsive, she takes risks left and right and she happens to be a really good pilot. She has a really hard time making friends and has a bit of a heart-breaker reputation at the academy. Her co-pilot, and best friend, Pippin is the perfect match for her. He helps keep her in check and is really good at what he does making what Nyx does possible.
The romance was something I was expecting, but I really enjoyed the way it played out. Tristan is just as good as Chase and I enjoyed reading about them flying together. We see a different side of Chase when she's with Tristan and he definitely makes her a better person and friend.
There is a ton of suspense in BREAKING SKY. The danger felt read and the action scenes had my heart pumping. McCarthy does a great job explaining everything from the world that the story takes place in to flying the jet, I felt like I was right there in the cockpit. I have no idea if BREAKING SKY will be part of a series, but I really enjoyed it and would love to read more about Nyx and her world.
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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